Manchester United dealt blow in pursuit of Bayern Munich star Lennart Karl

Manchester United have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of young Bayern Munich player Lennart Karl, with the German club having no intention of letting the attacking midfielder leave, according to a report by CF Bayern Insider. The report said Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool had enquired about the 18-year-old’s situation.

Karl has scored 10 goals and provided 10 assists in 52 appearances for Bayern, according to the source, which noted his ability to play as an attacking midfielder and out wide. Manchester United are interested in strengthening their creative options, while Bayern view the player as an important part of their future plans. The report quoted German journalist Christian Falk as saying that club officials are confident in Karl’s potential and do not want to approve his departure.

Interest in Karl intensified after Bayern honorary president Uli Hoeness criticised him, saying he needed to remain humble and not get carried away by the attention around him. His representative, Michael Ballack, publicly defended him, objecting to the timing of the criticism and emphasising the player’s improved performances. The report said Bayern are open to discussing a new contract, but negotiations have not begun, while Karl’s current deal runs until June 2029. His estimated value, according to the report, is €60 million, and Manchester United may have to look at other options unless Bayern’s position changes over the coming months.