Mourinho has been frustrated in his search for a new centre back but could strike a deal with Bayern for Boateng

Manchester United have opened talks with Bayern Munich over the potential signing of Jérôme Boateng, the £50 million-rated Germany centre back.

It is understood that officials from United and Bayern held discussions about the transfer of the 29-year-old prior to last night’s friendly between the two teams in Bavaria, which the hosts won 1-0.

José Mourinho wants to sign a centre half and an attacking player before the English transfer window closes on Thursday afternoon. The Portuguese has grown frustrated with Ed Woodward’s failure to bring in any more signings following the acquisition of Fred, Diogo Dalot and Lee Grant earlier in the summer.

Boateng was one of nine centre backs recommended to Mourinho and Woodward, United’s executive vice-chairman, by the club’s scouting department towards