Manchester United bowed out of the running to sign Bayern Munich striker Mathys Tel before the winter transfer deadline but will return to the market for a goalscorer this summer. And while Tel completed a dramatic late loan switch to Tottenham, United reportedly have an opening to launch a stunning heist if they retain an interest at the end of the season.
The 19-year-old was widely expected to stay at Bayern beyond Monday's deadline after rejecting the opportunity to join Spurs in a permanent deal.
Daniel Levy struck a £50million agreement with the Bundesliga giants, but Tel's refusal seemingly collapsed any hope of a north London arrival.
Reports claimed the promising Frenchman was holding out for Arsenal or United; otherwise, he'd stay put on the fringes of Vincent Kompany's plans at the Allianz Arena.
However, United later dropped out of the race after considering Bayern's demand for a £4.2m loan fee excessive.
It then emerged that a deal had, in fact, been struck for Spurs to sign Tel on an initial loan worth a staggering £8.3m with a £45m option to buy this summer.
Yet, Sky Germany report that Tel will have the final say on whether he remains at the Lilywhites or returns to his parent club.
That opens the door for his other suitors to swoop in should he wish to continue his career away from Ange Postecoglou's underperforming team.
Stay up-to-date with the latest Man Utd news Join us on WhatsApp
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
And, according to BILD, Tel would like to join United at the end of the season if Ruben Amorim returns for his signature.
The Red Devils are strongly expected to sign a new striker in the summer to hand Amorim an established goalscorer.
Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have netted a combined five Premier League goals this season, contributing to United's status as the competition's fifth-lowest scorers.
A reunion with Sporting's Viktor Gyokeres currently headlines the speculation, but Amorim's transfer prospects could depend on whether there is European football on offer or not.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Should United be forced to look elsewhere, they could very feasibly turn their attention back to Tel if they view him as more than a short-term fix.
For the remainder of the campaign, club chiefs will undoubtedly assess how the teenager fares in English football before deciding where he sits on their list of attacking priorities.
Tel made an unexpectedly early Spurs debut in Thursday's 4-0 mauling by Liverpool in the Carabao Cup semi-finals, replacing Richarlison on the brink of half-time.
Should the Brazilian face a spell on the sidelines, Postecoglou could hand the Bayern loanee an instant important role, starting when United visit Tottenham in the Premier League next weekend.