Manchester United have reportedly lodged a £30m bid for Wolfsburg star Julian Draxler.
This is according to the Daily Star, who claim that the 22-year-old is seen by United as a possible alternative to Armenian transfer target Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
Draxler, who was a member of the Germany squad that won the World Cup in 2014 and is again on the international scene at Euro 2016 this summer, is a fine talent and in today’s market probably worth more than £30m.
However, Draxler is not quite in the same league as Mkhitaryan. Not yet, at least.
Yes, he is five years younger than Mkhitaryan, but United boss Jose Mourinho is not building for the future – he needs results now.
And comparing the two attacking midfielders on their club form last season, it is clear which man should be regarded as the preferred option.
Draxler had a decent campaign, scoring five goals and providing five assists in 21 Bundesliga outings. However, Mkhitaryan was much more prolific, weighing in with 11 goals in 15 assists in 31 matches.
More Man United transfer news:
Man United transfer talk: Arsenal favourites to sign Red Devils star, Mourinho annoyed, world star available for £50m
Neymar transfer value: €30m rise as Barcelona move to price Man United out of record deal