Despite competition from Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester City, Manchester United is in the driving seat to sign Benjamin Pavard this summer.

The centre-back’s future has been the subject of much speculation, but reports suggest that the Red Devils are now taking concrete steps toward bringing him to Old Trafford. Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg claims that Pavard is in ‘concrete talks’ with United and that both parties are ‘working on a verbal agreement currently.’

After four years with Bayern Munich, Pavard wants out of the Bundesliga club this month. The 27-year-old has been a key cog in the Bavarians’ run of success that has seen them win the league every season, as well as the Champions League, Suρer Cup, and Club World Cup. Bayern will want to cash in on him before they rιsk losing him for nothing at the end of the upcoming season, as his current deal has less than 12 months left.

In addition, Plettenberg says that Erik ten Hag ‘is pressing’ to finalize the signing before the 2023/24 Premier League season begins. In light of the impending departures of former captain Harry Maguire and Eric Bailly, United’s acquisition of Pavard, a flexible defender who can play throughout the back four, makes a lot of sense. Both Phil Jones and Axel Tuanzebe have left the team since their contracts have expired.

Transfermarkt presently value Pavard at €40 million (£34.5m), however other outlets have reported higher or lower prices for his signature. If a deal can be reached, United will add the France international to the likes of Mason Mount, André Onana, and Rasmus Hjlund as they look to improve on last season’s top-four result.