This one looks as if it might, finally, be coming to a successful conclusion for Manchester United. The Guardian reports that Mats Hummels looks ever more likely to make a move this summer as his club has relented on their stance not to let the player leave:
Manchester United get all-clear to sign Borussia Dortmund’s Mats Hummels
• German club will consider bids for central defender this summer
In reality Borussia Dortmund haven’t said that they will sell, but just that they will considers offers if and when they come in.
The Player himself recently admitted that a move is now on the cards:
“Eventually, I’d like to leave the Bundesliga. I’m being open about this because I’m not a fan of those who claim they are staying but, behind the scenes, have actually secretly agreed a transfer away from their current club. Everyone knows how much I love it at Dortmund, but I also want to make sure I’m part of a strong team with powerful players.”
Previously Jurgen Klopp has said that the player isn’t for sale. But that stance seems to be softening as the reality of the player’s desires bites.
Even if Manchester United only signed Hummels in the summer, they would be much closer to a title charge. He will surely bring the sort of composure and precision that has been lacking from a youthful and mistake prone defence this season. At 26 Hummels has represented a preeminent Germany side on 39 occasions and has to be in with a shout of being their long term captain – perhaps for Manchester United too.
He’s also a wonderful distributor of the ball and will bring some craft back to the defence. But he won’t come cheap and, with other European giants also potentially looking for defensive reinforcements this summer, Manchester United need to move decisively for a player regarded one of the finest in the world in his position.
Let’s grease the wheels of out Saturday morning by watching a Hummels masterclass.
