Manchester United has received positive news in their efforts to sign Alphonso Davies, one of Real Madrid's primary transfer targets. With United already strengthening their squad this summer by signing five players, including Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich, they are now turning their attention to bolstering their left-back position. Alphonso Davies, a standout player for Bayern Munich, has emerged as a top candidate.
Davies, whose contract with Bayern runs until 2025, has been on the radar of both Real Madrid and Manchester United. Real Madrid has long expressed interest in the Canadian international and is reportedly making moves to secure his transfer. However, Manchester United could still be in the running, especially with reports that contract talks between Bayern Munich and Davies have hit a roadblock. Bayern is hesitant to meet Davies' salary demands, reportedly seeking more than €20 million per year, leading to a stall in negotiations.
The window of opportunity for both clubs opens in January 2024, when Davies becomes eligible to negotiate with other clubs regarding a free transfer once his contract expires in 2025. Real Madrid has already taken steps to engage with Davies, viewing him as a long-term solution to their left-back position, which has lacked a consistent presence since Marcelo’s departure.
However, Manchester United is still a possible contender. According to journalist Christian Falk, United could compete for Davies’ signature if they are willing to meet his high salary demands. Falk revealed, "If United is open to offering the salary that Davies is asking for, they could be serious competitors to Real Madrid. Bayern sees his demands as excessive and isn't prepared to offer more than €20 million per year." While Real Madrid is already in the conversation with Davies, no similar talks have been reported from United.
For Manchester United, this move could be crucial, as they aim to secure a world-class left-back who can enhance their defensive and attacking options. Although United's manager Erik ten Hag previously stated that Davies was "not a great defender" in the build-up to a Champions League match against Bayern Munich last season, Davies’ performances in recent years have shown he has grown into one of Europe’s most exciting and dynamic full-backs. Known for his blistering pace, attacking flair, and defensive capabilities, Davies would provide United with versatility and tactical flexibility on the left flank.
Despite these qualities, the race for Davies will not be easy, as Real Madrid remains the favored destination. Davies has expressed interest in joining the Spanish giants, and with Real Madrid’s track record of attracting top talents, they are positioned well to make a compelling offer. However, Manchester United’s willingness to meet Davies’ financial demands could tilt the balance in their favor, especially considering the competitive nature of transfer negotiations.
Additionally, United has reason to be optimistic. The club has successfully negotiated deals with top agencies in recent transfer windows, and with a strategic approach, they may be able to capitalize on any hesitation from Real Madrid or Bayern Munich. Bayern has a history of selling their top players when the right offer comes along, and Davies could be the latest in a long list of high-profile exits from the Bundesliga giants, following the likes of Robert Lewandowski, Jadon Sancho, and Erling Haaland.
The coming months will be crucial for Manchester United as they monitor developments surrounding Davies' situation at Bayern. If United continues to show interest and makes the right moves, they could be in a position to compete with Real Madrid for one of Europe’s most promising young talents. For now, United must weigh the potential benefits of signing Davies against the financial demands that come with securing a player of his caliber.
In the end, the club’s decision will come down to whether they are willing to meet Davies' salary requirements and outbid their competition for the highly sought-after left-back. Whether Davies ends up at Old Trafford or Santiago Bernabeu, the battle for his signature is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched transfer sagas in the coming months.