Manchester United have received a boost in their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen forward Christian Kofane, with reports suggesting the 20-year-old has put contract discussions on hold. The news arrives as the club prepares for a pivotal period under manager Michael Carrick.
Kofane contract talks stall
According to SportBild, Kofane has not accepted enhanced terms that would extend his stay at the BayArena until 2031. His existing Leverkusen deal runs until 2029, and while the Cameroonian remains open to fresh terms, the proposals do not match his expectations.
The Bundesliga club are reportedly prepared to offer a substantial wage increase on the deal agreed during Erik ten Hag's tenure, but certain details remain unresolved. United and Arsenal have both established contact with the forward's camp, and either club could capitalise on the situation.
Kofane has scored 10 goals in 50 appearances for Leverkusen and is valued at around £60m.
Gabriel cautioned over readiness
Former Manchester United defender Phil Bardsley has cautioned JJ Gabriel, stating he does not believe the youngster is ready for Premier League action. Speculation has suggested limited first-team opportunities are driving the teenager's desire to leave the club.
"From the outside, physically I don't think he's ready to be thrown in at the level yet," Bardsley told talkSPORT. "I think from years gone by, you look at players who have physically developed. You have [Wayne] Rooney, for instance, who was ready to go and play at that age.
"Look at the boy at the minute, his abilities are obviously there, he's an outstanding talent and hopefully goes on to be a great player. But I think the timing's a bit off, the way things are at the club and the way it came out."
Bardsley added: "But I believe it's been orchestrated by agents, parents, and pushing for these things when you're at such a delicate age and you're in a transition into men's football. I think you need to be patient."
Carrick's pressing need for a win
United return to action against Tottenham on Saturday, with Carrick under pressure after a difficult start to the campaign. The team have secured just one Premier League win, against newly-promoted Ipswich, and were eliminated from the Carabao Cup at home by Brighton.
United sit 12th in the table, and following the clash with Spurs, they face five additional fixtures across all tournaments, including Champions League trips to Atletico Madrid and Como.
