Latest developments
- Manchester United are leading the race to sign Jamie Gittens.
- Gittens wants to return to England after five years in Germany.
- Liverpool are also interested in acquiring the Borussia Dortmund star.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): Reliable source make bold claim
Manchester United are leading the chase to sign Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens. The Red Devils are in the market to strengthen their attack under Ruben Amorim and have now left Liverpool behind in the race for Gittens' signature.
The story comes from Sky Sports in Switzerland (via Standard), who are considered a pretty reliable source. They insist that Gittens is prioritising a return to the Premier League.
Value (2.5/5): Dortmund's hoping for too much
As is always the case, Dortmund are unlikely to let their star talent leave easily, or on the cheap. It is claimed that the Bundesliga giants would be looking to fetch over £80 million for a winger with 11 goals and five assists across all competitions this term.
The former Chelsea and Manchester City talent is undoubtedly an exciting prospect but that price tag is too risky for any suitor.
Suitability (3.5/5): Headache for fullbacks
The 20-year-old Englishman is a right-footed winger, capable of playing across the frontline. However, he mainly thrives as a left-winger and loves to cause chaos in the final third with his aggressive ball-carrying and relentless dribbling.
In short, he's a nightmare for fullbacks!
Upgrade? (4/5): Limited competition at United
With Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho attracting interest from elsewhere amid their concerning form under Amorim, Gittens would likely find it easy to get at least a few shots at locking down the left flank at Old Trafford.
Staying there long term might be a bit more complex, and that would obviously hinge on him translating his Bundesliga form to the Premier League, and fulfilling the furious demands of Manchester United fans desperate to see a return of the good times.
As the likes of Jadon Sancho and Owen Hargreaves prove, that is easier said than done.
Logic (3.5/5): New challenge after five years
The report stresses that Gittens has decided to leave Dortmund after five years at the club, and that his preference is to return to England.
In that regard, United are certainly a good destination, but with Liverpool also interested, the player's representatives should take their time before picking the right club for his development.
Whisper+ verdict: 17/25
The reputation of the source is certainly good, but such high-profile moves usually have plenty of twists and turns. The sneaking feeling is that there's too little time left for that in January, especially with United already being in a state of flux over the destinies of several players.
