Manchester United reportedly came close to signing German midfielder Leon Goretzka on a free transfer before eventually completing a move for Belgian international Youri Tielemans during their summer recruitment campaign.

The Red Devils were exploring several midfield options following Casemiro's departure and concerns over injuries affecting key players. The club's recruitment department, led by INEOS, considered Goretzka an attractive option because of his experience, physical presence and achievements at Bayern Munich.

However, the proposed move eventually collapsed after United's hierarchy reportedly raised concerns about the 31-year-old's salary expectations and demands for a long-term contract.

Instead, the Premier League giants turned their attention to Tielemans, securing his services from Aston Villa in a deal reportedly worth approximately £35 million.

The Belgian midfielder brought valuable experience and technical quality to Old Trafford, giving manager Mauricio Pochettino another option in the middle of the park.

Nevertheless, his arrival has generated debate among Manchester United supporters and football analysts, particularly regarding his compatibility with academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo.

Both players possess qualities suited to controlling possession and distributing the ball, but questions have emerged about whether they can operate effectively together in a defensive midfield partnership alongside Bruno Fernandes.

Some observers believe Goretzka would have offered greater physical strength, defensive protection and box-to-box energy, potentially providing a better balance to United's midfield.

Interestingly, the German international eventually secured a move to Aston Villa, where he has continued his career in English football.

His subsequent appearance against Manchester United at Old Trafford further fuelled discussions about the midfielder United potentially missed out on.

With expectations high at Old Trafford, supporters will be eager to see whether Tielemans proves to be the better long-term investment.

https://www.teamtalk.com/manchester-united/man-utd-nearly-signed-leon-goretzka-instead-youri-tielemans\