Manchester United are reportedly on alert over Leon Goretzka after Bayern Munich chief Max Eberl admitted the midfielder is “upset” with his situation at the club.
Goreztka has been largely frozen out under new Bayern boss Vincent Kompany, making just one appearance as a late substitute so far this season.
The Germany international has seen his opportunities limited following the arrival of Joao Palhinha for nearly £50million from Fulham and with 20-year-old academy graduate Aleksandar Pavlovic given more game time.
And Bayern director of sport Eberl said: “We communicated very clearly from the start.
“Leon knew that we were relying on Pavlo [Pavlovic], and that we would bring in with Palhinha and that Josh [Kimmich] would play more in the centre again.”
“We've also said that when Leon is there and ready to face the situation, he'll be treated completely normally.
“Leon's a great guy. I like him a lot, even though he's obviously upset at the moment. I understand that too. But that's part of life in football.”
According to The Sun, Manchester United are long-term admirers of Goreztka, who would have further interest from Premier League clubs should he be made available.
Goreztka has a contract at the Allianz Arena until the end of next season, but could push for a move in January if he continues to be sidelined.
Napoli and Atletico Madrid have also been linked with the 29-year-old, who is thought to earn over £200,000-a-week at Bayern.
Goreztka was a regular starter under Thomas Tuchel last term, but did not make the squad for Bayern’s 6-1 win over Holstein Kiel in the Bundesliga on Saturday.