MANCHESTER UNITED have been dealt a blow in their transfer pursuit of Eric Chupo-Moting.
The striker has hit form this season with 11 goals in 16 games for Bayern Munich.
That has led United to take an interest in Choupo-Moting as a potential replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Red Devils reportedly inquired about the striker’s availability ahead of a possible January bid but it appears he is set to stay at Bayern.
That’s because the German champions are plotting a contract extension, according to Bild.
The two parties are set to hold talks in February with Choupo-Moting’s current deal expiring in 2023.
But it is believed he will only put pen to paper if he is offered improved terms – something Bayern are happy to give the 33-year-old.
Choupo-Moting earns a reported £60,000-a-week but he could earn a considerable rise with his new contract.
Bayern have also been linked to Ronaldo since his groundbreaking interview with SunSport’s Piers Morgan.
United are considering tearing up the striker’s contract which would allow him to find a new club in January.
HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON THE WORLD CUP
Ronaldo and his agent Jorge Mendes reportedly met Bayern chiefs for talks before his tell-all interview.
David Beckham’s Inter Miami are also interested in the Portuguese and their chances of signing him have been boosted by MLS’ £210million windfall from agreeing a TV rights deal with Apple.
