Manchester United have a “verbal agreement” with Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard, according to Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg.

The journalist claims that the Red Devils have already had one bid turned down for the France international but the player is very keen on a switch to Old Trafford:

❗️ManUtd is pushing for Benjamin #Pavard and has submitted a first official offer to Bayern – confirmed.

➡️ The offer was rejected
➡️ But Pavard still very open to join #MUFC as there’s a verbal agreement in principle. @SkySportDE 🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/4KycIwvjEf

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) August 13, 2023

Plettenberg has previously reported that Bayern want around €30m (£26m) for Pavard, who has less than a year left on his contract at the Allianz Arena.

Considering United are aiming to sell Harry Maguire to West Ham for a similar fee, there is every chance that the club will reinvest the funds from the England international’s sale directly into buying his replacement.

Pavard has been linked with other Premier League clubs

Both Liverpool and Chelsea have reportedly held talks with the 27-year-old’s agents this summer, but it doesn’t look like either club will seriously challenge Erik ten Hag’s side for the player’s signature.

Chelsea have recently signed Axel Disasi from Monaco so they don’t need another centre-back, while Liverpool’s main priority is to strengthen the midfield before the transfer window shuts.

United have considered alternative targets

If the Red Devils can’t ultimately agree a fee for Pavard, they could still pursue other options, with Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo, Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba and Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi on the club’s radar.

However, none of them have the same level of experience as Pavard and they would all be more expensive too. Nice want at least €40m (£34m) for Todibo, while Guehi could cost in excess of £50m.