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Manchester United have signed Marcel Sabitzer on loan from Bayern Munich for the remainder of the season.
The 28-year-old Austria international emerged as a deadline day target for Erik ten Hag’s side following an injury to Christian Eriksen that will leave the Denmark international out of action until April.
Ten Hag told reporters on Tuesday that United did not require a late addition to fill the void left by Eriksen.
However, the availability of Sabitzer changed that approach and he has now completed a move to Old Trafford, bolstering the squad’s midfield options for the remainder of the season as they battle on four fronts.
United confirmed Sabitzer’s arrival on their official website a little over an hour after Tuesday’s transfer deadline, having submitted the relevant paperwork in time.
“Sometimes in life you have to make quick and important decisions,” Sabizter said. “From the moment I heard about this opportunity I knew it was right for me. 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 team-mates and manager and to show my qualities to Manchester United fans.”
United director John Murtough added: “Marcel is a player that we have watched for a long time. The opportunity arose quickly, and we knew that he was someone with the ability and character to make an impact.
“He adds further quality to our squad and experience to the dressing room, and all of us are pleased to be welcoming him to Manchester United.”
Sabitzer joined Bayern from Bundesliga rivals RB Leipzig ahead of the 2021-22 season but has found regular opportunities difficult to come by.
While he has made 40 appearances for the Bundesliga champions, just 15 of those have been as a starter.
Bayern chief Hasan Salihamidzic said: “Manchester United expressed an interest in Marcel Sabitzer at the beginning of the week. Marcel told us he would like more playing time and he’s confident he will get that at United.
“After consultation with our coach Julian Nagelsmann, we accepted the request and have loaned Marcel to Manchester United until June 30. We wish him every success for the second half of the season with United.”
Sabitzer has not been signed in time for the second leg of United’s EFL Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest on Wednesday, but he could make his debut in the Premier League clash against Crystal Palace on Saturday.
