Liverpool, Man Utd target says summer transfer will come too soon
Liverpool and Manchester United have been told that a move to the Premier League for one target will come too soon this summer.
The two powerhouses have been linked with Hoffenheim midfielder Christoph Baumgartner.
Kicker, via Sport Witness, reported that Baumgartner was in the “shop window” on Saturday as Austria faced Italy.
The 21-year-old was the pick of Austria’s star’s along with David Alaba and the Liverpool Echo claimed the former was on the club’s radar.
Kicker have also reported the interest of United and his performance against the Azzurri must have had their scouts making notes.
His flexibility makes Baumgartner an interesting prospect. He finished the last campaign with nine goals and seven assists across all competitions and can play across midfield, as an attacking midfielder and as a false nine.
The German outlet did note that it would take an “unexpected mega-offer” to tempt Baumgartner into stepping away from his contract, which runs until 2025.
But after exiting Euro 2020 on Saturday to Italy, Baumgartner was probed about his immediate future. And the Horn-born star pretty much ended talk of a move, at least for the time being.
“I definitely extended my contract in March with the intention of playing here next season. I see the best opportunity here to develop myself further. For me that means: continuous performance at a high level, with even more upward strides,” Baumgartner told SportBild.
Baumgartner did pen a two-year extension to his deal in March, with Hoffenheim keen to secure his future.
“Christoph’s development at TSG is an absolute success story for both parties. We look forward to further new chapters,” said Hoffenheim director of professional football Alexander Rosen.
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Baumgartner models himself on ‘Radio Muller’
“It’s clear that a player with his ability is already on the radar of top international clubs. This makes his signal of commitment to Hoffenheim even stronger.”
Asked whether he models himself on Germany star Thomas Muller, Baumgartner agreed, although he concedes he has a long way to go to match “Radio Muller”.
“My style of play is certainly going in that direction. But I will not compare myself to Thomas Muller, who has won umpteen titles,” said Baumgartner.
“I like to watch videos of his goals and assists. And when I watch the Champions League on the sofa, I pay special attention to how cleverly he acts in the narrow spaces. I also like the way he communicates with his teammates.
“He is also referred to as “Radio Muller”. He’s one of the best in the world and certainly a role model. I’m not yet “Radio Baumgartner”, but I also try to take responsibility, give commands and keep the boys awake.”
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