Borussia Dortmund director rules out Manchester United move for Thomas Meunier

Borussia Dortmund are uninterested in allowing Thomas Meunier to leave the club in this window, dealing a blow to Manchester United’s hopes.

Fabrizio Romano reports that Borussia Dortmund are uninterested in letting go of Thomas Meunier in this window. Manchester United had been linked with a move for the experienced right-back, but the short time left before the transfer deadline may be crucial in this decision.

Manchester United are looking to finish the transfer window with a flourish, as several players are targetted. Erik ten Hag urged the club to recruit quality players before the deadline, and questions were asked over the squad following a disastrous start to their season.

Ajax’s Antony remains their top attacking target, with Manchester United recently lodging a fresh €90 million bid. Moreover, the arrival of Casemiro has shored up their midfield options which lacked the required quality before. Ten Hag was also keen on bringing in a defender, with a right-back needed at the club.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka is clearly out of favour at Old Trafford, and Diogo Dalot cannot be relied upon for an entire season despite an impressive display against Liverpool recently. Hence the need for a new player in the position was considered imperative for Manchester United, but their hopes of landing a preferred target have been dealt a blow.

Manchester United were linked with Thomas Meunier, but their hopes have been dealt a significant blow after Borussia Dortmund director Sebastian Kehl insisted that the defender is not for sale. Kehl said on Meunier’s links with Manchester United and Barcelona, “We have no intention of selling Thomas Meunier. Currently, it’s absolutely not our plan to sell him.”

Barcelona were also keen on signing the right-back during this window and will have to look at alternate options to sign someone before the window shuts. As for Manchester United, there may not be enough time to bring in a new right-back, although the club may yet seek someone to compete with Dalot.

If they cannot find a new player, Wan-Bissaka, who has interest coming from Crystal Palace, could stay. The right-back does not seem to fit ten Hag’s style. However, Manchester United cannot afford to lose depth in the position and may look to integrate him for the remainder of the season.