Transfer Centre

Erik ten Hag coy on possible permanent move for Marcel Sabitzer

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 19 May 2023

Ten Hag coy on possible permanent move for Sabitzer

Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag refuses to reveal whether his side could sign Bayern Munich midfielder Marcel Sabitzer on a permanent basis this summer.

Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag responded "we will see" when asked whether Marcel Sabitzer could join the club on a permanent basis this summer.

The 29-year-old moved to Old Trafford on loan from Bayern Munich in January, and he has represented the Red Devils on 18 occasions, scoring three goals and registering one assist in the process.

Sabitzer will not be involved for the rest of the 2022-23 campaign, though, having picked up a knee injury.

"Everyone at the club is disappointed to lose Marcel's services, as we strive for a strong finish to our season in the Premier League and the FA Cup," read a statement on Man United's official website.

"We appreciate his contribution to our progress so far. We would like to wish Marcel well in having a speedy recovery."

Aston Villa's Douglas Luiz in action with Manchester United's Marcel Sabitzer on April 30, 2023 © Reuters

The Austria international's future has been the subject of much speculation in recent months, with Man United believed to be keen to acquire his services on a long-term basis.

Sabitzer recently said that he has not yet spoken to Bayern head coach Thomas Tuchel over his future, but he has hinted at a possible permanent move to Old Trafford.

The midfielder has another two years left to run on his contract at Allianz Arena, but there have been suggestions that a deal could be done for a fee in the region of £15m.

Ten Hag was asked about Sabitzer's future during his press conference to preview Saturday's game against Bournemouth, and the Dutchman was coy on the subject.

Manchester United's Marcel Sabitzer with manager Erik ten Hag as he prepares to come on as a substitute on February 4, 2023 © Reuters

"We will see, but it's not our main focus, our main focus is Bournemouth," Ten Hag told reporters ahead of the clash at the Vitality Stadium, where Man United will be bidding to make it successive wins in the league.

Sabitzer has featured on 11 occasions in the Premier League this season, while he also made three appearances for the Red Devils in the Europa League, scoring twice.

The Austrian made the move to Bayern from RB Leipzig in August 2021, and he has represented the Munich giants on 54 occasions, scoring twice and providing two assists.

Man United are expected to sign at least one new central midfielder this summer, with the futures of Scott McTominay and Fred both up in the air.

The Red Devils are allegedly preparing to offer a contract to Adrien Rabiot, who only has little over one month left to run on his deal with Juventus, while Borussia Monchengladbach's Manu Kone is also being linked with a move to Old Trafford in the upcoming market.