Benjamin Pavard’s potential move to Manchester United is currently ‘blocked’ by Harry Maguire’s failure to leave Old Trafford.
That’s according to L’Equipe, who say the defender wants the move having been convinced by Erik Ten Hag’s promises to him.
The newspaper states that Pavard is currently being fought over by Manchester United and Inter Milan, who are both keen on him but face ‘obstacles’ that need to be overcome to get him.
Manchester United had a head start in the race for the player, with their size and history appealing to the French defender alongside the project presented to him, which he saw as ambitious.
Then there was Erik Ten Hag, who convinced the player on the move to Old Trafford by guaranteeing the player a starting role in the centre of defence.
Pavard would also be given the chance of reuniting with Raphaël Varane, a player he is close to after playing together for the French national team.
The big problem is Maguire. Pavard’s signing had been planned as a replacement for him, but the England defender has turned down a most to West Ham to remain at Old Trafford. Thus, Pavard’s arrival is ‘blocked’.
That stalemate is something Inter Milan are now trying to take advantage of, although their financial issues mean they’re unlikely to get a deal over the line quickly for a player Bayern Munich are said to want €40m for.