Latest developments
- Manchester United have contacted Bayern Munich for Mathys Tel.
- United want some time to finalise potential departures before making a new signing.
- Tottenham Hotspur want to sign Tel on a permanent basis.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (4/5): Plettenberg reports new twist
Tottenham Hotspur seemed in the driving seat to secure Mathys Tel's signature but now Manchester United have stepped up their efforts to overtake them by contacting Bayern Munich. They want to “buy some time” in order to sort out the futures of Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford before paving the way for a new arrival. Aston Villa are also thought to be in the race.
🚨🔴 Excl | Understand that Manchester United have contacted FC Bayern regarding Mathys #Tel! #MUFC are interested in a loan deal and hope to buy some time regarding Tel since departures are needed (Garnacho/Rashford).
ManUtd are definitely in the race, as exclusively revealed… pic.twitter.com/EAo6Hlm52o
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) January 31, 2025
The story comes from Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg, who is one of the best sources for transfer updates from Germany.
Value (3/5): Bayern assessing all options
Bayern sporting director Max Eberl has underlined that the Bundesliga giants are open to discussing both loan and permanent exits for the Frenchman. It is understood the Red Devils' preference is to sign Tel in a loan deal. However, Spurs are showing more ambition, as they are open to spending as much as £50million on the out-of-favour forward in January.
Suitability (3.5/5): More apt for Amorim's setup
The likes of Rashford and Garnacho have struggled under Amorim, as they are more aggressive and direct in their approach when in possession of the ball. However, Amorim's setup is designed to get the best out of wide-playmakers rather than the wingers. As such, a player like Tel, who has brilliant movement and technical ability to link up with his teammates in the final third, could prove to be a more suitable option for the Portuguese.
Upgrade? (4/5): Versatility could help
Tel has a more well-rounded profile and is also capable of playing on the flanks as well as through the middle. United need reinforcements in both positions. The Bayern star is not only going to seamlessly replace one of Garnacho and Rashford but he is also capable of pushing Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee for the number nine role.
Logic (3.5/5): Tel wants United
Despite Spurs' decisiveness and readiness to spend big, Tel is understood to be leaning towards a loan move to Old Trafford. Both clubs are equally unstable but it seems the opportunity to play at the Theatre of Dreams appeals more to the 19-year-old prodigy.
Whisper+ verdict: 18/25
With both Spurs and United going head-to-head for Tel, the next few hours could be very interesting to monitor.
