Two Man Utd players are being ‘discussed internally’ at Bayer Leverkusen as Erik ten Hag set to raid former club

Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen are reportedly eyeing a summer swoop for two Manchester United stars, as newly appointed manager Erik ten Hag prepares to reshape the squad in his image following his high-profile return to the dugout.

After several months out of the spotlight, Ten Hag has been confirmed as the successor to Xabi Alonso at Leverkusen. The Dutchman, who was dismissed by Manchester United in October 2024 following a dismal start to the campaign, is now tasked with building on Alonso’s remarkable legacy in Germany.

Speaking at his unveiling, Ten Hag expressed enthusiasm for the challenge ahead. “I’ve come to Leverkusen to continue the ambition shown in recent years,” he said. “It’s an attractive challenge to develop an ambitious team during this period of change.”

That period of change may well involve the departures of several key players, most notably Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong. The duo have been at the heart of Leverkusen’s title-winning exploits, but lucrative moves abroad appear imminent. Combined, their transfers could generate over £150 million, giving Ten Hag significant financial power heading into the transfer window.

With those exits in mind, Leverkusen’s recruitment team — in tandem with Ten Hag — is already compiling a shortlist of replacements. According to German outlet Kicker, Manchester United duo Alejandro Garnacho and Antony are among those being actively discussed behind closed doors at the BayArena.

Garnacho’s name is reportedly near the top of Leverkusen’s wishlist. The Argentine winger has been tipped for a move away from Old Trafford this summer following tensions with new United boss Ruben Amorim. Sources close to the player suggest he has grown disillusioned with his role at the club and is seeking clarity over his future.

Despite being under contract and commanding a significant transfer fee, Garnacho is considered an “absolute top solution” by Leverkusen. He is also believed to fall within a “very moderate range” in terms of wages — a factor that further enhances his appeal to the German side.

However, Garnacho’s situation remains complex. For now, Kicker reports that he is in the “not available yet” category. Much may depend on Amorim’s long-term plans and how Manchester United react to potential offers.

While Garnacho’s future is clouded by uncertainty, fellow United player Antony appears to be a more realistic target. The Brazilian winger, who played under Ten Hag at Ajax and later reunited with him at Old Trafford, has enjoyed a resurgence since joining Real Betis on loan in January.

During his six-month spell in Spain, Antony rediscovered some of the form that once made him one of Europe’s most exciting young attackers. He notched eight goals in 24 appearances across La Liga and the Europa Conference League, helping Betis qualify for European competition next season.

His performances in Seville have reignited interest from clubs across the continent, with Leverkusen now entering the frame. Ten Hag, who sanctioned Antony’s £85 million move to United in 2022, remains a strong admirer of the winger and may view a reunion in Germany as a way to rejuvenate the player’s career.

It’s no secret that Antony struggled at United. Across 94 appearances, he scored just 12 goals and registered five assists — a return that was widely panned by pundits and supporters alike. But his familiarity with Ten Hag’s tactical systems could prove invaluable as the Dutchman looks to implement his vision at Leverkusen swiftly.

From Leverkusen’s perspective, adding a player with Champions League and Premier League experience would provide immediate value. Antony’s flair, pace, and technical ability make him an attractive option to replace outgoing stars like Frimpong, especially if deployed in a more advanced role.

There is also the emotional and strategic logic of Ten Hag turning to former players he knows well. Rebuilding at a new club often requires trust in individuals who understand the coach’s expectations, and both Garnacho and Antony fall into that category.

Of course, neither move is guaranteed. United are unlikely to let Garnacho go without a significant bid, and Antony’s market value could rise if Betis push for a permanent deal or if other clubs enter the race. Still, the internal discussions at Leverkusen indicate serious intent.

Ten Hag’s arrival has sparked renewed optimism among the club’s hierarchy. After lifting the Bundesliga title for the first time in history under Alonso, Leverkusen want to avoid becoming a one-season wonder. Retaining competitiveness in both domestic and European fronts is now a top priority.

Whether Garnacho and Antony become part of that new chapter remains to be seen, but the links are certainly intriguing. For United, it’s another indication of potential upheaval under Amorim, as the Portuguese manager seeks to stamp his authority on the squad.

As Leverkusen prepare for a new era under Ten Hag, one thing is clear: the transfer market is set to be a battlefield, and Manchester United may find themselves at the heart of it once again.

What are your thoughts on Leverkusen targeting Garnacho and Antony? Could either find success under Ten Hag in the Bundesliga? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.