Dortmund hint United wanted Robert Lewandowski before Robin Van Persie

Posted Thursday, August 23, 2012 by Metro.co.uk

Popular: Dortmund's Polish striker Robert Lewandowski

Lewandowski is widely considered one of the best strikers in Europe - a reputation he added to last season, scoring 30 goals in all competitions as Dortmund recorded a league and cup double.

But despite being contracted to the Bundesliga side until 2014, the 24-year-old's future has been thrown into doubt over the summer, with United and Chelsea both strongly linked with substantial bids for the Polish hitman.

It's understood that Sir Alex Ferguson failed with a £25 million raid for Lewandowski over a month ago, which meant he was forced to turn to Arsenal's Robin van Persie instead.

Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo is also believed to be a known admirer, and Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc has now confirmed his striker is the subject of mass interest.

'There have been enquiries from several clubs,' Zorc told Bild.

'Our position has not changed since March - Lewandowski still plays at Dortmund.'

The firm stance is being fiercely backed throughout the club, with chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke also confirming Lewandowski is going nowhere.

'There were other clubs interested in him. I am repeating myself but Lewandowski will play next season for Dortmund.'

United and Chelsea are both expected to continue scouting Lewandowski during the coming season.