Manchester United sign Marcel Sabitzer on loan from Bayern Munich after Christian Eriksen injury news sparks transfer U-turn
Manchester United completed the signing of Bayern Munich midfielder Marcus Sabitzer on loan.
The Premier League side entered discussions with the Austria international to cover for Christian Eriksen, who will now be sidelined for three months with an ankle injury.
Manager Erik ten Hag had initially played down bringing in a replacement before Sabitzer, who played 54 times for Bayern, became an option.
The player was not present at Bayern training on Tuesday as he travelled to the UK to complete his move.
It's understood Chelsea showed a late interest in Sabitzer with their big-money move for Enzo Fernandez hanging in the balance.
But Sabizter has opted to join the Red Devils for the remainder of the campaign.
“Sometimes in life you have to make quick and important decisions," Sabitzer said.
"From the moment I heard about this opportunity I knew it was right for me. I am a competitive player; I want to win and help the club achieve its aims this season.
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“I feel that I am at my peak as a player, and that I can contribute a lot of experience and energy to the squad. I am excited to start with my new team-mates and manager and to show my qualities to Manchester United fans.”
Commenting on the move, United's football director, John Murtough said: “Marcel is a player that we have watched for a long time. The opportunity arose quickly, and we knew that he was someone with the ability and character to make an impact. He adds further quality to our squad and experience to the dressing room, and all of us are pleased to be welcoming him to Manchester United.”
Sabitzer has endured a mixed campaign so far having scored once in 15 appearances.
He has played a bit-part role for the Bundesliga outfit with just one minute of action in Bayern’s three matches since the resumption of league duties after the World Cup.
Fans will remember Sabitzer's star performance for former club RB Leipzig when he scored twice to dump Tottenham out of the Champions League in March 2020.
With United in good form and on target for a top-four finish, Ten Hag will want a full squad to pick from for their assault on domestic and European glory.