Bayern Munich midfielder Ryan Gravenberch would reportedly prefer to sign for Manchester United if he leaves the Allianz Arena this summer.
The future of the Dutchman has been a hot topic for debate since the start of the year, a consequence of failing to establish himself as a regular starter during his first year in Germany.
Gravenberch did not make headway in their quest until the final weeks of the season under Thomas Tuchel, yet there has remained uncertainty over whether he will stay at the club.
Throughout pre-season, the 21-year-old failed to play more than 45 minutes in any of Bayern's friendlies, while he remained as an unused substitute during the German Super Cup defeat to RB Leipzig.
With Konrad Laimer having been brought to the club and a creative midfielder now in line to drop deeper due to the arrival of Harry Kane, Gravenberch effectively has more competition in front of him.
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According to Foot Mercato, Tuchel is open to allowing Gravenberch to find a new club over the coming weeks, whether that be on loan or a permanent basis.
Options are allegedly being studied by the respective people with the likes of Man United and Liverpool known to be admirers of the Netherlands international.
The report says, though, that Gravenberch would prefer to sign for Man United if the opportunity arises before the end of the current transfer window.
Erik ten Hag - his former boss at Ajax - is in charge of the Red Devils, although United appear to be in the market for a more defensive-minded option at this stage.
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From Liverpool's perspective, they find themselves in a similar predicament having missed out on the signings of Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia to Chelsea.
Jurgen Klopp has seemingly moved to sign Stuttgart midfielder Waturu Endo, the Japan international in line to play a holding role in the engine room at Anfield.
Nevertheless, Liverpool have been frequently linked with Gravenberch for months and will likely remain interested until his future is resolved.
Bayern remain in a strong position, however, with four years still remaining on a contract of a player who cost in the region of €23m.
Darren Plant
