Schweinsteiger informed the German champions on Friday he wanted a change of scenery after 17 years and is expected to sign a three-year contract with the Red Devils.
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United, who will also make their Champions League return next season, have already clinched the £31m signing of Memphis Depay from PSV Eidhoven – a deal that sees the Dutch worldwide reunited with his former national boss. With Luis Nani, Robin van Persie and Rafael all in various stages of leaving the club, it was essential new, better players were brought in.
Rummenigge, however, has expressed his wish that he will. Guardiola’s current one ends in 2016.
A World Cup-winner with Germany in Brazil previous year, Schweinsteiger came through the youth ranks at Bayern and has spent 13 seasons with the Bavarians, winning the Bundesliga title eight times.
“I have had a telephone conversation with him in the last few days and I get the feeling he is flattered by the interest from England”, said Rummenigge on Thursday.
The Bayern chief’s words are sure to encourage United in making a concrete approach for Schweinsteiger.
Van Gaal has previously worked with Schweinsteiger at Bayern and it was the Dutchman who converted the 30-year-old German into a defensive midfielder from a winger.
According to Sky Sports Germany, the two pairs of officials are discussing the final terms of contracts that will take Schweinsteiger away from Bayern for the first time in his career.
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“Of course I am planning to work with Basti next season”, said Guardiola. I find it hard to believe any footballer would not be flattered by interest from a major global football club and this is hardly newsworthy – but tabloids are as tabloids do, and this “story” has been in papers all over the world now. He clearly told me he wants a new challenge in Manchester.
