Man Utd chief Ed Woodward eyeing deal for 'the next Michael Ballack'

Manchester United chief Ed Woodward is preparing a bid for ‘the next Michael Ballack’ with other Premier League clubs interested. Hoffenheim star Christoph Baumgartner is top of the shortlist at Old Trafford after a fine campaign in the Bundesliga.

United chief Woodward has made Baumgartner a top transfer target at Old Trafford but is battling with several Premier League teams for his signature.

The Hoffenheim ace has been earmarked as the “next Ballack” and is having a fine campaign.

At just 21, the Austrian is enjoying a fine campaign and has starred for his club in the Europa League with two goals in the group stage.

Baumgartner is able to operate across all midfield positions but has also operated on the wing.

According to The Sun, United are tracking the youngster closely and are ready to make him a top target.

However, snapping up the attacking whizkid will most likely go ahead in the summer with a bid too soon in the current transfer window.

Baumgartner’s contract will expire in 2023 and his valuation is set to skyrocket after the season.

At current market value of £16m, United would do bets by getting him through the door early to avoid paying over the odds.

Hoffenheim are notorious tricky negotiators, most recently swindling £40m out of Newcastle for Joelinton.

The Sun further reports that a number of other sides in the Premier League are looking at Baumgartner.

But the Red Devils are leading the way as Woodward ramps up his efforts in the transfer market.

source: express.co.uk