New twist for Man Utd target as medical passed after £63m deal for Bayern striker

Aston Villa have reportedly joined the race to sign Bayern Munich striker Mathys Tel, who has been heavily linked with Manchester United ahead of the January transfer deadline.

Tel, 19, has struggled for playing time this season, with Bayern boss Vincent Kompany preferring Harry Kane as his first-choice striker.

As a result, the young French forward is now considering a move away from Bavaria in search of regular minutes.

Reports on Wednesday suggested that Manchester United were interested in securing Tel on loan, given their restricted financial position under the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

However, Tottenham, Chelsea, and Arsenal have also been monitoring his situation.

According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Aston Villa have now entered the race for Tel as they seek a replacement for Jhon Durán, who is set to join Al-Nassr for £63 million.

Meanwhile, uncertainty remains over Ollie Watkins’ future, with Arsenal expressing interest in the England international.

Romano confirmed Villa’s approach on X (formerly Twitter), stating: "One more club has called today for Mathys Tel: Aston Villa have also asked for deal conditions.

"Jhon Durán leaves to join Al-Nassr, and Villa are in the market for a new striker. There are currently seven clubs involved."

The Athletic are reporting that Duran has passed a medical ahead of a £63m move to Saudi Arabia.

"One more club has called today for Mathys Tel: Aston Villa have also asked for deal conditions," he said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

United currently have Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Højlund as their primary striking options, but neither has been convincing so far this season.

The duo has managed just 11 goals between them in all competitions, leading United to explore reinforcements before the window closes.

Despite his high potential, Tel has endured a difficult season, failing to score in 14 appearances and registering just one assist.

However, his lack of goals is largely due to limited opportunities, and United believe regular game time could help him rediscover his scoring form.

With the transfer window nearing its end, competition for Tel is heating up, and United will need to act fast if they want to secure the Bayern youngster before deadline day.