Manchester United need more than another expensive name to strengthen their attack. Bruno Fernandes still carries much of the creative responsibility, while Mason Mount has struggled to put together a consistent run of appearances. Michael Carrick needs more options between midfield and attack, particularly players who can create chances and threaten defenders from different positions.

Fernandes remains central to United’s plans, but the club cannot keep relying on him to provide most of their attacking creativity. Mount’s fitness problems have made that dependence harder to manage, leaving the recruitment team with a clear decision to make, and that is to find another established creator or invest in a younger player who can develop into a regular first-team option.

That search has reportedly taken United to Germany. According to CaughtOffside, citing CFBayernInsider, United, Arsenal and Liverpool have all made enquiries about Bayern Munich teenager Lennart Karl. However, the Bundesliga champions are reluctant to entertain his departure and regard the 18-year-old as an important part of their plans.

The German midfielder has made 11 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring once and providing two assists in 444 minutes. He is still fighting for regular involvement, rather than being an established first-team regular. He can play centrally or from the right, while his left foot, close control and quick changes of direction give him several ways to trouble defenders. His contract runs until June 2029, leaving Bayern in a strong negotiating position.

Interest in Karl has grown alongside public discussion about his attitude and rising profile. Bayern honorary president Uli Hoeness has urged the youngster to stay grounded, while his representative, former Germany international Michael Ballack, has defended him. German journalist Christian Falk has reported that Bayern have yet to begin extension talks. A reported €60 million valuation would amount to roughly £52 million.

Can Manchester United use the Bayern tension to create a transfer opening?

The disagreement may attract headlines, but it doesn’t give United meaningful leverage on its own. Bayern have little reason to sell a player they see as central to their future, particularly with three Premier League clubs monitoring his situation.

United should maintain contact rather than rush into an expensive pursuit. Karl could offer something different from Fernandes, bringing more directness, dribbling skills and the ability to operate from the right or through the middle.

However, he is still developing, and his limited minutes make it difficult to judge how quickly he could handle the demands of English football. Spending around £52 million would be very risky. So, United must establish whether Bayern will negotiate before allowing this interest to distract from more immediate squad needs.