Man Utd ‘Favourites To Sign’ Dortmund Star As Huge Swap Deal Emerges

Manchester United have emerged as the 'favourites to sign' a Borussia Dortmund star, with a potentially huge swap deal on the cards.

United have been busy in the transfer market since Ruben Amorim arrived more than 12 months ago.

Patrick Dorgu was the only addition in the January window, but four first-team players arrived during the summer.

Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko were signed in an attacking overhaul, while goalkeeper Senne Lammens was another much-needed addition.

Their arrivals have made a noticeable impact, with United currently sitting seventh after finishing a disappointing 15th last season.

However, the club are expected to be busy in the upcoming transfer windows as INEOS continue their rebuild of the playing squad.

Central midfielders and defenders are believed to be the priority positions for 2026, with shortlists already being drawn up at Old Trafford.

Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha joined during the summer (Image: Getty)

One name that has emerged as a potential defensive target is Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterback.

The German international joined Dortmund in 2022, but with his contract running until 2027, speculation has grown that he could seek to move on next year.

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, 'United have taken the lead' in the race to sign Schlotterbeck.

The report adds that United admire his ability on the ball and view him as a player who could help reduce the age of the backline.

However, over the past year the club have said they remain at risk of breaching the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

Despite spending over £200 million during the summer, PSR limitations are expected to play a key role in shaping their transfer activity next year.

Nico Schlotterbeck at Borussia Dortmund (Image: Getty)

As a result, swap deals could become an appealing strategy for United.

One player who has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford in recent months is England international Kobbie Mainoo.

The midfielder asked to leave on loan in August and is still yet to start a Premier League game this season.

United in Focus reported during the summer that Borussia Dortmund were one of the clubs monitoring Mainoo's situation closely.

Mainoo's contract at Manchester United runs until 2027, although the club hold an option to extend it by another year.

United's initial contract proposal at the start of 2025 was rejected by the player, and the two parties have moved no closer to an agreement during the summer.

With Mainoo becoming increasingly frustrated over his limited playing time, a January loan move now appears likely.

Antonio Conte's Napoli have emerged as a possible destination, following the success of Scott McTominay and Rasmus Hojlund in Italy.