Manchester United transfer news: Bastian Schweinsteiger working hard for exit with extra gym sessions

Schweinsteiger has struggled with injuries since arriving nearly 18 months ago

Schweinsteiger retired from international duty in September (Getty Images)

Bastian Schweinsteiger looks certain to end his Manchester United nightmare in January after getting himself back to full fitness with extra gym sessions.

The former Germany captain, who retired from international duty last month, has been frozen out of the first-team picture by Jose Mourinho, leading to criticism from the likes of Lukas Podolski, Ilkay Gundogan and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.

Mourinho included Schweinsteiger in his Premier League squad for this season but has already made it clear he does not expect the World Cup winner to feature for the Red Devils this season.

However, despite being told his United career is effectively over, Schweinsteiger has impressed staff at the club with his attitude.

The 32-year-old has been spending more time outside of usual training sessions for extra gym and fitness sessions in an attempt to get back in shape.

The 121-times capped German has been linked with either a return to the Bundesliga or a move to America to play in the MLS after an injury-plagued 18 months at Old Trafford.

“We have been very impressed with him. He has managed to get himself much fitter over the last month,” a United source told The Sun.

Bastian Schweinsteiger has found himself exiled at United under Jose Mourinho (Getty)

“He has got his head down and really pushed himself and is visibly lighter after getting over his injuries from last season.

“The support staff and some of his team-mates are pleased for him. He hasn’t moaned once and is coming in and worked hard in the gym.

“He is obviously fulfilling his contractual obligations but he appears happy and it wouldn’t be a surprise if he has something lined up in January.”