Manchester United could land bargain deal for Bundesliga’s fastest midfielder

Manchester United are on the hunt for a central midfielder to bolster their ranks this month.

Scott McTominay and Fred currently occupy the two midfield spots, while the likes of Paul Pogba and Donny van de Beek look increasingly likely to depart.

While the Red Devils have been heavily linked with a move for West Ham’s Declan Rice, The Mirror have reported that Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Denis Zakaria has emerged as a top target.

It was previously claimed that the 25-year-old would cost £25 million, however he could end up costing significantly as the German club look to avoid losing him for free in the summer.

Following interest from Juventus, Gazetta dello Sport reported that Zakaria could be sold for as little as £8.5 million this month - a much cheaper option than Rice.

Who is Denis Zakaria?

Denis Zakaria joined Borussia Monchengladbach in 2017 for around €10 million.

The Swiss international has been in mixed form for his club since his arrival, though some of this season’s statistics show the midfielder in a very positive light.

Bundesliga stats show that Zakaria is the sixth fastest player in the league this season (35.62km/h) - the only midfielder in the top six.

The 25-year-old is also in the top 10 for pass completion with 90 per cent.

Outside of the Bundesliga, Zakaria has made 38 appearances for his country - featuring in the Euro 2020 tournament as Switzerland reached the quarter-finals.