To bolster their midfield, Manchester United is seeking to buy Marco Verratti from Paris Saint-Germain.

The Red Devils have “come forward” in the last few days to indicate their interest in the Italian playmaker, according to L’Equipe (via PSGTalk).

Bayern Munich is also a possibility, but as things are, Verratti will no longer play in Europe.

While PSG and Al-Ahli have not yet reached an agreement, the small midfielder has already agreed to personal terms with the Saudi Pro League team.

Bayern and United are now free to approach, and while neither is expected to provide the same level of financial windfall, the chance to remain in Europe may be attractive.

Verratti, who is 30 years old, is still a world-class player with a lot to contribute at the top level of the game.

The Italy great enjoys the defensive side of the game and is not afraid to get mud on his boots. His passing range and remarkable press resistance are other exceptional aspects of his game.

The only midfielder in the group who is capable of making plays from deep is Christian Eriksen, so Man United would benefit from having a natural deep playmaker in their lineup.

Erik ten Hag, though, truly could have done without a lot of the problems that Verratti would bring. For instance, his injury history is anything but encouraging.

According to Transfermarkt, he missed 42 days in total last season owing to various injuries. He has never once concluded a league season with more than thirty starts throughout his career in Paris.

Such a track record is hardly encouraging for a player approaching his 30s, and given the money he would demand (PSG are reportedly asking for more than £25 million, not including the rumoured £252,000 weekly salary he now receives), Ten Hag would likely be better off going elsewhere.

It wouldn’t be shocking if PSG itself provided this link in an effort to pressure Al-Ahli to increase their offer.