Man United activated 'emergency protocol' to sign Marcel Sabitzer on loan

Manchester United activated 'emergency protocol' to land Marcel Sabitzer on loan from Bayern Munich on transfer deadline day.

Erik ten Hag swiftly brought in Sabitzer on a deal until the end of the season after discovering the extent of Christian Eriksen's injury that he suffered against Reading in the FA Cup.

The club had looked at the likes of Ryan Gravenberch and Youri Tielemans before securing the services of the experienced Austrian midfielder.

Man United insist the speed of the deal to get Sabitzer across the finish line on deadline day shows the club's recruitment department is now working as it should.

Marcel Sabitzer in action for Bayern Munich. Image: Alamy

That's according to ESPN, who claim Man United used 'emergency protocol' to complete the transfer of the 28-year-old in just 12 hours.

A team led by football director John Murtough, deputy football director Andy O'Boyle, director of data science Dominic Jordan and head of recruitment operations Steve Bruce worked together to 'quickly identify realistic targets in problem positions' before presenting the list to Ten Hag.

Negotiations with Bayern ran smoothly because of an existing strong relationship between the powerhouse clubs.

It's said that Murtough has looked to 'cultivate with all of Europe's top sides since taking on the role as football director in March 2021'.

Another key aspect of the deal was having everyone in the same room for meetings with Ten Hag and his staff in order to complete the deal with little time.

The club have moved the entire recruitment operation to Carrington rather than having it split between offices in London and Manchester.

Ten Hag will have Sabitzer at his disposal for the rest of the season, with the player aiming to help the Red Devils to achieve its aims this campaign.

"Sometimes in life you have to make quick and important decisions. From the moment I heard about this opportunity I knew it was right for me," he said.

"I am a competitive player; I want to win and help the club achieve its aims this season.

"I feel that I am at my peak as a player and that I can contribute a lot of experience and energy to the squad. I am excited to start with my new teammates and manager and to show my qualities to Manchester United fans."