Mathys Tel Gives Green Light to ‘Immediate’ Manchester United Transfer After Rejecting Tottenham – Arsenal Also Set to Miss Out on Bayern Munich Forward
Bayern Munich Starlet Mathys Tel Chooses Manchester United Over Tottenham and Arsenal
Bayern Munich’s rising star, Mathys Tel, has reportedly given the green light to an immediate transfer to Manchester United, rejecting interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal. The 18-year-old French forward has been on the radar of several Premier League giants, but it appears that Old Trafford will be his next destination.
Tel’s decision to reject Spurs and Arsenal in favor of Manchester United comes as a significant boost for Erik ten Hag, who has been searching for attacking reinforcements. The talented striker, who has impressed in limited appearances for Bayern Munich, is seen as one of the brightest young forwards in European football.
His potential arrival at Manchester United signals an exciting new era for the Red Devils, who are looking to rebuild their squad with young, dynamic talents. But what led to Mathys Tel rejecting Tottenham and Arsenal, and what can he bring to United’s attack?
Mathys Tel’s Rise at Bayern Munich
Teenage Sensation in the Bundesliga
Tel joined Bayern Munich from Stade Rennais in 2022 for a reported €20 million, making him the most expensive 16-year-old signing in Bayern’s history. Since then, he has showcased immense potential, scoring crucial goals despite limited game time behind Harry Kane and other senior forwards.
- Debut Bundesliga Season (2022-23): 5 goals in 28 appearances (mostly as a substitute).
- 2023-24 Season (So Far): More consistent appearances, proving his ability as a clinical finisher.
Despite his growing reputation, Bayern’s attacking depth has restricted his minutes, leading to speculation that he could seek regular first-team football elsewhere.
Why Bayern Munich Are Willing to Let Tel Leave
While Bayern Munich rate Tel highly, they understand that the young forward wants more game time to continue his development. With Harry Kane as the club’s main striker and competition from players like Serge Gnabry, Leroy Sané, and Kingsley Coman, Tel’s opportunities in the starting XI remain limited.
Rather than keeping him as a backup option, Bayern have decided to allow him to explore opportunities elsewhere—and that’s where Manchester United, Tottenham, and Arsenal entered the picture.
Why Mathys Tel Rejected Tottenham and Arsenal
Tottenham’s Interest: Why Tel Said No to Spurs
Tottenham had identified Mathys Tel as a long-term replacement for Harry Kane, who left for Bayern Munich last summer. Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou has been eager to bring in a young striker who could grow into a Premier League star.
However, Tel was not convinced by Tottenham’s project for several reasons:
- Uncertainty Over Game Time: Spurs already have Richarlison, Son Heung-min, and Dejan Kulusevski in attack, meaning Tel’s opportunities would still be limited.
- Lack of Champions League Football: Tottenham are not currently competing in the UEFA Champions League, a factor that Tel considers crucial for his development.
Arsenal’s Interest: Why the Gunners Missed Out
Arsenal were also keen on Mathys Tel, with Mikel Arteta seeing him as a potential addition to challenge Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah for the central striker role.
However, Tel ultimately turned down Arsenal’s offer, with sources suggesting that:
- He was not guaranteed to be the first-choice striker.
- Arsenal’s tactical system does not suit his playing style, as Arteta prefers a striker who drops deep and links up play rather than a pure goal poacher.
- Manchester United’s offer was more attractive in terms of future playing opportunities.
This led to Manchester United moving ahead in the race, with Tel agreeing to join the Red Devils.
Why Mathys Tel Chose Manchester United
1. Erik ten Hag’s Vision
One of the key reasons Mathys Tel chose Manchester United is Erik ten Hag’s vision for him at Old Trafford. The Dutch manager has been rebuilding United’s attack, and Tel is seen as a perfect long-term addition.
- A key role in United’s attack: With Anthony Martial likely to leave in the summer, Tel would be given significant game time alongside Rasmus Højlund.
- A club rebuilding for the future: United are focusing on young talent, and Tel fits perfectly into their long-term strategy.
2. More First-Team Opportunities
Unlike at Bayern Munich, where Tel has struggled to break into the starting XI, Manchester United can offer him regular first-team football in the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League.
- Competing with Højlund for the striker position
- Opportunities in multiple competitions
- Chance to be part of United’s attacking future
3. Premier League Dream
Tel has always admired the Premier League, and the opportunity to play for one of England’s biggest clubs was too good to turn down. His playing style—quick, direct, and clinical in front of goal—is well suited to Premier League football.
At Manchester United, he will have the chance to develop under top-level coaching, improve his physicality, and adapt to the fast-paced English game.
What Mathys Tel Brings to Manchester United
1. Versatility in Attack
Tel can play in multiple attacking positions, including:
✅ Striker (Center Forward) – His natural position, where he excels as a goal poacher.
✅ Right Winger – Can cut inside and use his strong left foot.
✅ Second Striker – Can play off another forward and create chances.
His versatility will allow Ten Hag to experiment with different attacking formations, making United’s attack less predictable.
2. Clinical Finishing Ability
Despite his limited game time at Bayern, Tel has shown that he is an instinctive finisher. He has:
- Excellent positioning in the box.
- Quick reactions to rebounds and loose balls.
- Composure in one-on-one situations.
With the right service from Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, and Alejandro Garnacho, Tel has the potential to score 20+ goals per season.
3. High Pressing and Work Rate
One of Tel’s strongest attributes is his high work rate. He fits perfectly into Ten Hag’s pressing system, which demands attackers to:
- Press defenders aggressively.
- Win back possession quickly.
- Make intelligent off-the-ball runs.
His energy and determination will be a valuable asset to United’s attacking strategy.
Final Thoughts: A Huge Transfer for Manchester United
Mathys Tel’s decision to join Manchester United over Tottenham and Arsenal marks a significant moment for Erik ten Hag’s project.
✅ United beat two Premier League rivals to land one of Europe’s top young talents.
✅ Tel will get regular first-team football and has the potential to become a star in the Premier League.
✅ His arrival strengthens United’s attack, adding more depth and versatility.
While it remains to be seen how quickly Mathys Tel adapts to the Premier League, his potential is undeniable. With the right development, he could become one of the best young strikers in world football and help Manchester United return to domestic and European dominance.
For Manchester United fans, the signing of Mathys Tel represents another exciting step forward in the club’s journey back to the top.
