Sunderland ‘to battle’ Arsenal and Man City for Scotland U19 defender Alfie Osborne

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·29. März 2026

Sunderland ‘to battle’ Arsenal and Man City for Scotland U19 defender Alfie Osborne

Sunderland are among several Premier League clubs monitoring Hearts prospect Alfie Osborne. TEAMtalk reports that the 17-year-old has attracted interest after impressing this season.

The Scotland youth international has shifted from midfield to centre-back in Hearts’ youth ranks at Tynecastle this term.

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Arsenal and Manchester City sent scouts to watch him for Scotland U19s in midweek. Despite a 3-0 defeat to Italy, he was said to have stood out at the back.

Leeds United, Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Fulham are also said to be monitoring him.

Because of his age, English clubs could recruit him for a compensation sum believed to be under £250,000. Hearts are trying to tie him to a long-term deal in Edinburgh, and Osborne is understood to be open to a move that could spark a summer battle for his signature.

Source: Sunderland Echo