Manchester United have signed Bayern Munich midfielder Marcel Sabitzer on loan until the end of the season in a late Deadline Day move.
There is no option to buy the Austria international.
United’s need for a midfielder intensified after Christian Eriksen was ruled out with an ankle injury until at least April, with Donny van de Beek unavailable for the rest of the season and Scott McTominay out for a few weeks.
The club were offered a host of midfielders including free agent Isco, Atletico Madrid’s Saul Ninguez and Yannick Carrasco and Lyon’s Houssem Aouar, but preferred Sabitzer.
Chelsea also enquired about a deal for Sabitzer but chose to pursue a move for Benfica’s Enzo Fernandez.
Sabitzer joined Bayern from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2021 but has started just seven games in the Bundesliga so far this season.
Predominantly a central midfielder, the 28-year-old has also played as a defensive midfielder, attacking midfielder, second striker and winger during his career.
“Sometimes in life you have to make quick and important decisions. From the moment I heard about this opportunity I knew it was right for me.
“I am a competitive player; I want to win and help the club achieve its aims this season.
“I feel that I am at my peak as a player, and that I can contribute a lot of experience and energy to the squad.
“I’m excited to start with my new team-mates and manager and to show my qualities to Manchester United fans.”
“Manchester United’s initial interest was in Marcel Sabitzer’s Bayern Munich team-mate Ryan Gravenberch, who was on Liverpool’s midfield shortlist ahead of his switch to the Bundesliga giants.
“The 20-year-old, coached by Ten Hag at Ajax, has been disillusioned by his lack of minutes at Bayern but the club had no intention of letting him leave this month and the player himself wants to fight for his place.
“On very short notice, in a horribly tight bind given Christian Eriksen’s injury situation, Sabitzer is a clever addition on loan. The Austria international offers versatility in the positions he can cover, having operated out wide but also in a free eight role similar to what Eriksen has had.
“Comfortable with both feet which will aid United’s balance in possession, Sabitzer has the ability to progress the ball quickly and is also adept at protecting space, cutting off passing lanes using his cover shadow.”
Sky Sports
