Antonio Rudiger thinks Manchester United have missed out on a top player, describing Nathaniel Brown as a 'monster' ahead of his £48million transfer to Bayern Munich.
What happened?
Brown, 23, has agreed personal terms with Bayern Munich, and the Bundesliga champions are negotiating a £48million deal with Eintracht Frankfurt.
The full-back has impressed Rudiger with his performances, including a goal and an assist in Germany's 7-1 win over Curacao at the World Cup.
Why it matters for Antonio Rudiger
Rudiger has been positively surprised by Brown's abilities, saying he is a "very calm character off the pitch, but on the pitch, he's a monster".
Brown's transfer to Bayern Munich is expected to be completed soon, with the player reportedly verbally agreeing to a five-year contract.
What comes next?
Manchester United will have to look for alternative options, with Lewis Hall being considered as a potential target.
The Red Devils are prioritizing signing a left-back this summer, with Luke Shaw being their only current option.
And with Newcastle United not needing to sell Hall after selling Anthony Gordon to Barcelona, United may face competition for the player's signature.
But Rudiger's praise for Brown highlights the player's quality, with the defender saying he is "already very far ahead for his age".
Brown has made 12 goal contributions for club and country this season, and his transfer to Bayern Munich is expected to be a significant coup for the German club.
So Manchester United will have to move quickly to find a suitable replacement, with the transfer window open and several top clubs competing for the best players.
The Red Devils' scouting team will be working hard to identify potential targets, with Rudiger's comments on Brown serving as a reminder of the high standards required to compete at the top level.