Manchester United announced the signing of Austrian midfielder Marcel Sabitzer on loan from German giants Bayern Munich.

Christian Eriksen hurt his ankle on Tuesday, and the Denmark midfielder will be out until early May. This meant that United had to make a move before the deadline.

Wout Weghorst, a forward from the Netherlands, was signed on loan by manager Erik ten Hag earlier in January.

Sabitzer, who is 28 years old and used to be captain of RB Leipzig, has played for Austria 68 times and won 68 caps.

“Sometimes in life you have to make quick and important decisions,” said Sabitzer, who will be at Old Trafford for the rest of the season.

“From the moment I heard about this opportunity I knew it was right for me. I am a competitive player — I want to win and help the club achieve its aims this season.

“I feel that I am at my peak as a player, and that I can contribute a lot of experience and energy to the squad.”

Manchester United football director John Murtough said: “Marcel is a player that we have watched for a long time. The opportunity arose quickly, and we knew that he was someone with the ability and character to make an impact.”

United are fourth in the Premier League and are hot favourites to reach next month’s League Cup final.

Photo by EPA/RONALD WITTEK