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As Manchester United gears up for a new era with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS acquiring a significant stake in the club, former United star Dimitar Berbatov has voiced his opinion on the team’s potential transfer targets.
Berbatov, speaking with Betfair, pinpointed Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich as an ideal signing for United under Ratcliffe’s impending leadership.
Ratcliffe is set to hold a 25 percent stake in Manchester United following the Christmas Eve announcement of an agreement between his company and the club.
Furthermore, he will take over the football operations from the Glazers after the necessary regulatory approvals are finalized, a process expected to last four to six weeks.
Despite the window for the January transfer closing before Ratcliffe officially assumes control, it has been reported that major transfer decisions for this period would still require his approval.
Berbatov, in a discussion with Betfair, identified Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich as a prime target for Manchester United under Ratcliffe’s impending regime.
He stated: “Going forward with the takeover, I wonder how brave Man United will be in the transfer market. Joshua Kimmich is being linked, but he’s such an important player for Bayern Munich. Can I see him leaving Bayern and coming to United in the January transfer window? I don’t think that will happen.
“Maybe we can speak about this transfer in the summer, but he’s someone who is highly regarded at his current club.”
He further added, “With Casemiro’s injuries and form, maybe United are going to look for a replacement.
“Let’s not forget about Scott McTominay though, he’s there and playing well, but if Casemiro is not going to be counted on to continue to play because of his age and injuries, then of course, you need to buy someone to replace him. Kimmich is someone who fits perfectly in that position, but does he want to leave Bayern? That’s going to be a tough decision.”
The article also sheds light on criticism Kimmich has recently faced in Germany.
Following Bayern Munich’s unexpected 5-1 defeat to Frankfurt in the Bundesliga, former Bayern Munich star Lothar Matthaus criticized Kimmich’s recent form and demeanor.
Speaking on Sky90, Matthaus said, “Not only on the pitch but even post-match Kimmich isn’t as visible as he used to be. I’m sure that has its reasons.
“He’s hiding. Previously, Kimmich had usually been – at least until a year or six months ago – someone who clearly and openly expressed his views in front of the camera even after defeats.
“Over the last two years, Kimmich has been properly getting his a** kicked, including by us [the media] because he just hasn’t been performing at the level we expect from him.”
These statements and the unfolding situation at Manchester United highlight the complexities and challenges of high-profile player transfers in European football.
