By Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

20th Aug, 2023 | 7:00am

Sources: Expected winner named in Man United race to sign Pavard

Inter Milan have jumped ahead of Man United in the race to sign Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard, sources have told Football Insider.

The Red Devils had identified the World Cup winner as a potential defensive target this summer, but Inter are now in pole position to secure a full agreement for the 27-year-old’s signature.

Football Insider first revealed United’s interest in Pavard back in April – while treble-winning Man City are also keen on the France international.

Pavard’s versatility in defence would have helped to bolster Erik ten Hag’s squad, but they now look set to miss out on their man to Serie A giants Inter.

Football Insider revealed on Saturday (19 August) that Man United are still keen to sign a defender and midfielder but cannot strengthen until they sell players.

Donny van de Beek, Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay are believed to be the stars on the chopping block ahead of the 1 September deadline.

Pavard made 43 appearances for Bayern in the 2022-23 campaign, playing both centrally and on the right flank for the German giants.

He scored seven goals and provided one assist during his 3,371 minutes of first-team action last season.

The Frenchman started in the DFL-Supercup loss against RB Leipzig last week but was an unused substitute for the win over Werder Bremen on Friday (18 August).

Meanwhile, Man United’s frailties were exposed in a 2-0 loss away at Tottenham on Saturday (19 August).

The Red Devils will play Champions League football this season.

In other news, Man United contract clause revealed after £90m+ deal agreed.