Bayern swoop for Tranmere's Jennings

The League One striker is ready to make a decision he would have never thought possible at the end of last season

Dale Jennings has signalled his intention to sign for one of the biggest clubs in the world as negotiations with his club Tranmere Rovers and Bayern Munich reached a critical stage last night.

The League One striker is ready to make a decision he would have never thought possible at the end of last season by joining the famous Bundesliga side in what promises to be one of the most unexpected and extraordinary transfer deals of the summer.

Tranmere are understood to have negotiated a package of around £500,000 up front for the 18-year-old in a deal that could rise to £1.5 million. West Ham attempted to enter the race on Thursday night and were believed to be preparing a £1.8m bid but Tranmere have not received an official offer.

The Rovers manager, Les Parry, said that Jennings "would love to go there" and that he was not blocking the move as it was a "fantastic opportunity".

Jennings, a 5ft 7in striker, who can also operate as a winger, is considered one of the best young talents outside the Premier League despite the fact he only made his League One debut last September.

His performances earned him the League One Apprentice of the Year award although injuries and a dip in form limited the teenager's impact in the second half of the season.

Parry added: "He's a quiet lad, so the German won't be a problem because he can mutter in German as well as he can in English. You don't pay that sort of money for a player and don't look after him."