United handed Goretzka boost

According to 'Manchester Evening News', Goretzka was attracting interest from Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Manchester United.

However, the Red Devils have been handed a boost in their pursuit of the 22-year-old Schalke midfielder, as Barcelona international scout, Ariedo Braida ruled out a move for him, as he believes Goretzka is not ready for the demands of playing for the Catalan side.

Braida said: "He is certainly a great player, but for Barcelona it is too soon.

"I travel around the world in search of great talent, but our demands are extremely high."

The 6ft 2in midfielder was part of the young Germany side who won the Confederations Cup last summer and is rated as one of the Bundesliga's hottest prospects. 

With United captain Michael Carrick's contract expiring in the summer, Jose Mourinho could certainly be in the market for a young midfielder, and Goretzka may just fit the bill.