As the transfer of Jonathan Ta (29, Bayer Leverkusen) to FC Barcelona becomes uncertain, Premier League's Manchester United has begun to take action.
German 'Sky Sports' reported on the 3rd (Korea time) that "Ta is set to part ways with Bayer 04 Leverkusen this summer and has essentially reached an agreement with Barcelona; however, the finalization of the contract is delayed due to the club's financial issues."
Ta has excellent aerial dominance thanks to his height of 195cm, and despite being a large player, he excels in one-on-one defense against attackers, utilizing his quick feet. He reached a top speed of 35.81 km/h, making him one of the fastest players among center-backs in the Bundesliga.
Ta is not just fast. He has great ability to block passing lanes with clever positioning. Additionally, he possesses accurate long and mid-range passing skills, making him a versatile asset capable of contributing to build-up play from the back.
Ta has earned the favor of coach Xabi Alonso. Having played for Leverkusen since the 2015-2016 season, Ta led the team to its first league title in the 2023-2024 season, marking the Bundesliga's first undefeated championship and solidifying his status as a top center-back in the league.
In this situation, Bayern Munich had previously shown interest in Ta. Last April, German Sky Sports reported, "According to our investigation, Bayern is aiming to recruit Ta. They were deeply impressed by his performances this season. He can play in both a back three and a back four. Additionally, he is one of the fastest defenders in the Bundesliga."
Rumors of Ta's transfer to Bayern Munich continued to circulate. At the same time, reports have emerged that Barcelona also wants Ta.
It seemed that Ta was closer to a transfer to Barcelona than to Bayern. However, it appears that Barcelona's financial issues have once again hindered progress. Sky Sports reported on the 3rd that "While issues arose, Manchester United intervened and completed initial contact with Ta's associates."
Ta's contract with Leverkusen will expire at the end of this season. He has been a cornerstone of the team for 10 years and will become a free agent (FA) this summer.
The media reported that "Barcelona is still unable to resolve Ta's registration issues, and until the contract is finalized, there is a possibility of other big clubs intervening."
Currently, the only club involved in the race for Ta's transfer is not just Barcelona. Maintaining a good relationship with Leverkusen's coach Xabi Alonso, Ta has been placed on Real Madrid's radar as Alonso is increasingly likely to leave for the club.
Furthermore, Bayern Munich is also reconsidering their interest in Ta. According to Sky's report, Bayern has resumed discussions internally regarding Ta's name in recent weeks.
This time, Manchester United has officially joined the fray. Reports indicate that United has already conducted initial negotiations with Ta's agent. Should United acquire Ta as a free agent, they would secure experience and immediate capabilities without the burden of a transfer fee.
As a result, the 'Ta war' surrounding his name is expected to become even more intense, involving Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Manchester United. Ta is one of the most sought-after free agents in this summer's transfer market, and top European clubs are anxious about his final decision.
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