Ten Hag should be keeping a close eye on 6'1" forward on just £16k p/w at Euro 2024, Man Utd move already linked - opinion

Erik ten Hag should be keeping a close eye on Germany’s Maximilian Beier at Euro 2024. He’s recently been linked with a move to Manchester United.

It is reported that Manchester United are interested in the German youngster, and has made the first move into launching an enquiry to find out what it would take to bring him to Old Trafford.

It is believed that the Hoffenheim star could be available on the cheap this summer, with a £27.5m release clause at his current club.

However, despite the Red Devils seemingly making the first move, a good Euro 2024 campaign could see Beier emerge onto the radar of some of Europe’s top clubs, that is if he isn’t already.

So just who is he? United in Focus brings you everything you need to know about Beier.

Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images

Who is Maximilian Beier?

Beier is a young German footballer who is currently playing for Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga. He has been with the German side since the academy ranks.

He debuted for Hoffenheim’s first team in the Bundesliga during the 2019-2020 season, and scored his first goal for Die Kraichgauer the next, netting two goals and providing an assist in a 4–1 win against Gent in the Europa League.

He then sought out some more playing time, so Beier was loaned to Hannover 96 for the 2021-2022 season, and then a further season, where he showcased his talent in the 2. Bundesliga.

However, on returning for the 23/24 campaign he became an integral player for the Bundesliga side. He became the club’s top scorer, netting 16 goals – which ultimately had his national side take note, rewarding him with a place at Euro 2024.

Where and when was Maximilian Beier born?

At the time of writing, Maximilian Beier is 21 years old. He was born on October 17, 2002. He was born in Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany.

Beier has featured for the German national side since 2019, beginning at U17 level and progressing through the U20s, and U21s all the way to the first-team. He made his senior debut in a friendly match against Ukraine prior to the Euro 2024 tournament.

Maximilian Beier height

Beier is approximately 6 feet and 1 inch tall (1.85m). His physically imposing nature means he is not only a force to be reckoned with on the ball, but also off it.

What is his strong foot?

Beier is right-footed but is also competent with his left in front of goal. Could be useful around Carrington.

What position does Beier play?

Beier’s main position is as a centre-forward, but does have the ability to play just off the striker, or on either wing. For Hoffenheim in his breakthrough season, he played off former Manchester United man, Wout Weghorst.

He took up the second striker role and made his starting positions high up on the left where he tended to roam deeper and wide. However, as shown by his goalscoring, he also had a knack for being in the right place at the right time.

What is his price and current wage?

Beier has a release clause of £27.5m and is on just £16k p/w at his current side, according to Capology. An absolute steal in today’s market.

Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images

What have people have said about Maximilian Beier?

“Above all, it is important for him to even get into positions from which he can shoot. He can manage that thanks to his dynamism and technique. You either have those genes or you don’t, and Maxi has those genes to score goals.” – TSG boss Pellegrino Matarazzo

“I played against him in my first years as FC Bayern’s U17 coach and his qualities were immediately apparent. He runs an incredible amount, works for the team and rewards himself with goals. I’m sure Julian Nagelsmann has him on his radar.” – Germany great Miroslav Klose

How good is Maximilian Beier?

He looks to be a real talent, with fantastic potential. A good Euros campaign could really kickstart the hype around him, let’s see what pans out. Will we see him at United next season? Well, Erik ten Hag should definitely be monitoring the lad. For now – take a look at his best bits.