German press claim Manchester United will sign Real Madrid midfielder

German newspaper, Bild, has reported that Manchester United are set to make a bid of £38m+ to sign Mesut Özil from Real Madrid.

Josep Pedrerol, who is a presenter on Spanish football TV programme Punto Pelota, claims that the deal is dependent on Gareth Bale’s transfer from Tottenham Hotspur.

“We have already reported that Real Madrid in the next ten days will receive a range of 45 to 50 million for a major player,” he said. “The offer is now coming Thursday or Friday. It is a top player who wants to be there at the World Cup. He thinks that his position is in danger due to the transfer of Bale and that he secures his World Cup participation with his move.”

Ozil is concerned that with the recent purchase of Isco, he will struggle to get a regular starting place ahead of the World Cup next summer. He was also criticised by manager Carlo Ancelotti after Real Madrid’s opening game of the season against Real Betis.

“Between defense and midfield we have a big hole,” he said. “If we want to play good football, players like Isco and Ozil must also do defensive work.”