Benjamin Pavard has taken 'explosive steps' to join Man Utd, he's determined to force through move

Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard has taken 'explosive steps' to force through a transfer to Manchester United, it has been reported.

Pavard has been linked with a move to Old Trafford throughout the summer as manager Erik ten Hag searches for defensive replacements.

As per Fabrizio Romano, United launched their opening bid for the 27-year-old on Saturday, but it was rejected by Bayern.

Pavard also reacted to United defender Raphael Varane's Instagram post with two fire emojis after the Frenchman scored his side's winning goal against Wolves on Monday.

According to German outlet Bild, Bayern do not want to sell the player this summer, even though he is entering the final 12 months of his deal.

Now, a new report claims Pavard has taken 'explosive steps' to seal a transfer.

Benjamin Pavard takes 'explosive steps' over Man Utd transfer

Bild claim that Pavard is taking the 'explosive steps' through his Instagram activity in order to secure a move to United.

As well as replying to Varane's post on Monday with fire emojis, he also liked several posts from United's official Instagram account.

Bild describe the activity as 'eye-catching actions', and suggest he is trying to 'provoke his departure' from Bayern.

Sky Sports, meanwhile, claim Pavard will 'fight as hard as possible' to secure an exit from Bayern Munich this summer, despite starting his side's 3-0 defeat against RB Leipzig at right-back on Saturday.

But speaking in an interview with RMC Sport last year, Pavard confirmed his preferred position is centre-back - and stated one club he would not join were he to leave Bayern.

He explained: "I can help out on the right flank, but my position is central defender.

"I want to play central defender because that's my position since the U19s. I feel very comfortable and fulfilled in this position.

"If one day I should [leave], it will not be to Dortmund, despite all the respect I have for the club and its fans."