A familiar name on the scouting shortlist
Manchester City are among the clubs keeping an eye on PSV Eindhoven's Paul Wanner, according to reports. The 20-year-old German midfielder has also been linked with Liverpool and Real Madrid, while Bayern Munich are monitoring his situation closely.
Wanner operates as a number ten or in central midfield, and his passing, vision and technical ability in the final third mark him out as a player who can create chances for those around him. The suggestion is that he has the tools to play for a big club down the line, though he would need to develop further before he is ready for the Premier League.
The €50m question
PSV value him at €50 million and will not let him leave without a fight. For a player still largely unproven at the highest level, that figure looks steep, and any interested club would presumably look to negotiate something more sensible. It remains to be seen where he ends up.
Liverpool, for their part, are reportedly gathering reports on his performances and development as they look to add creativity and mobility in the middle of the park. They believe Wanner could be an interesting option, and their record with young players suggests they could play a key role in his growth if they get serious.
Bayern's presence in the race is worth noting. The chance to join the biggest German club could be tempting for a young German international, and that pull is not something City or Liverpool can easily counter.
City's interest, if it firms up, would fit a familiar pattern of targeting technically gifted midfielders. Whether they view Wanner as a first-team option or one for the future is unclear. At 20, with a €50m price tag and a host of clubs watching, this is one to file under 'monitor' rather than 'imminent'.