Christoph Baumgartner snubs Liverpool and Manchester United to stay with Bundesliga outfit TSG Hoffenheim

 

Liverpool are eager to bring in attacking reinforcements this summer and hence one of their targets is Austrian midfielder Christoph Baumgartner. Manchester United have also shown interest in the Hoffenheim star but it looks like Baumgartner will be with the Bundesliga outfit for at least another season.

The midfielder who can also slot in a false nine upfront has impressive Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp. The Reds are gradually looking to move ahead of their attacking trio of Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino. Baumgartner has the ability to play in any of the three positions and that is why clubs are attracted to the Austria international.

The 21-year-old has had two brilliant seasons with Hoffenheim and that has seen his stock rise in the European market. Coupled with his consistent performances, Baumgartner’s performances in the Euros for Austria were also decent. He scored the solitary goal in a 1-0 win over Ukraine in the final group stage clash.

His form and ability to play in multiple positions and take up multiple roles have also attracted Manchester United’s interest. However, it is highly unlikely that either United or Liverpool will be successful in signing him as he recently signed a four-year long extension.

“My clear plan is to play for Hoffenheim next season,” Baumgartner told SportBILD when discussing the matter of his future at the club and whether he would seek a switch to England.

“I definitely extended my contract in March with the intention to play here next season,” he added, in reference to the four-year extension through 2025 he penned earlier this year.

“I believe I have the biggest opportunity to develop further here. For me, that means playing consistently at a high level with more room for improvement.”

The 21-year-old netted five goals and assisted six times in the Bundesliga last season, proving that he can be a creative nucleus of any team but if the opportunity arises he won’t shy away from taking his shots at goal. Baumgartner will be tracked closely by multiple teams and if he keeps up the level of his performance in the upcoming season then there will be more suitors for the Austrian international.