Man Utd rival Real Madrid for Girona star - report | OneFootball

Real Madrid's hopes of signing Girona left-back Miguel Gutierrez could be thwarted by a rival bid from Manchester United, a report in Spain has claimed.

Gutierrez has caught the eye of a number of top European sides after an impressive 2023/24 season with Girona, during which he registered two goals and nine assists in 40 appearances. His value could yet increase with impressive performances for Spain's Olympic team this summer.

A report from Diario AS states Madrid and United are among the parties interested in Gutierrez, but they both face intense competition from across Europe for his signature.

Gutierrez, who graduated from Madrid's youth system, could be bought back by the European champions for only €8m - a figure far less than what other clubs will be expected to pay. If United choose to sign the left-back, they will be forced to pay his €35m release clause, with the player currently tied to Girona until 2027.

Man Utd got little out of current left-backs Malacia and Shaw in 2023/24 / Marc Atkins/GettyImages

He could prove a worthy investment for United, fixing their need for a new left-back. Erik ten Hag's side limped through the 2023/24 season with Luke Shaw regularly sidelined by injuries and Tyrell Malacia not playing a single minute.

The report does reveal, though, that Gutierrez would prefer to play in the Champions League next season - a prospect that United cannot offer. Therefore, his main options appear to be move to Madrid or remain at Girona.

Gutierrez will first hope to enjoy a successful tournament with Spain in Paris, but may have to make his future decision quickly as teams will soon start planning for the season ahead. If Spain are to see success at the Olympic Games, Gutierrez will not be available until after the final on August 10.