Manchester United given Leon Goretzka boost after Barcelona pull out of race to sign Schalke midfielder

• e-mail

Barcelona have pulled out of the race to sign Schalke midfielder Leon Goretzka – opening the door for Manchester United and Bayern Munich.

The 22-year-old was heavily linked with a transfer to the three European giants over the summer, with Barcelona thought to be the front-runners in the race for his signature.

But they have decided to end their pursuit of the player, with club scout Ariedo Braida suggesting he wasn't ready to play at the Nou Camp.

Barcelona have pulled out of the race to sign Schalke and Germany midfielder Leon Goretzka

The 22-year-old was linked with a move to the likes Manchester United during the summer

'He is certainly a great player, but for Barcelona it is too soon, he said.

'I travel around the world in search of great talent, but our demands are extremely high.'

Their decision, as reported by the Manchester Evening News, is a boost for United and Bayern, who were linked with a move for the midfielder during the summer transfer window.

Goretzka, only 22, has already won 10 caps for Germany, netting four times for Joachim Low's side since June.

He was part of the young Germany team that won this year's Confederations Cup and has already scored two goals in his first eight appearances this season. 

Goretzka was part of the young Germany squad that won last summer's Confederations Cup