Loukman Tapsoba: Manchester United face Chelsea battle for African starlet | OneFootball

Manchester United remain alert to emerging talents across the world at the moment after revamping their transfer strategy since the arrival of INEOS.

The Red Devils have invested wisely in the squad in recent times, adding established names like Bryan Mbeumo, Matthijs de Ligt and Matheus Cunha as well as exciting youngsters like Sekou Kone and Chido Obi. The focus has been on building a squad that will not only return United to the top but also help them remain there.

The Red Devils are trying to pick up emerging talents before they become established names and according to a recent report relayed by The Peoples Person, they have now set their sights on Burkina Faso striker Loukman Tapsoba.

The new Didier Drogba

Tapsoba was one of the youngest players to feature at the Under-17 FIFA World Cup, yet his performances have already caused a stir at the Theatre of Dreams.

United have struggled to score goals in recent times, and signed Benjamin Sesko for a mammoth fee from RB Leipzig this summer. However, Tapsoba represents a generational talent who could develop into a world-beater in the next decade.

The 15 year old has already drawn comparisons with Chelsea legend Didier Drogba for his style of play. The Red Devils are eager to secure his services, but it now appears that they are no longer the favourites to win this race.

Chelsea want Tapsoba

According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea have stepped up their efforts to secure the young striker, although there are other parties in the race as well.

“Chelsea are looking to beat a number of Premier League rivals, including Manchester United, to the signing of African striker starlet Loukman Tapsoba, TEAMtalk understands. Chelsea are one of number of clubs who have been following Tapsoba closely for most of 2025.”

“United have been seen as leading the charge for Tapsoba when it comes to English interest, but now TEAMtalk can reveal that Chelsea have stepped up their campaign to land him.”

“Tapsoba, who has been likened to Chelsea legend Didier Drogba, impressed while playing for Burkina Faso at the recent Under-17 World Cup in Qatar, where he was actually one of the youngest at the tournament at just 15.”

The report adds that the teenager will not be able to join until at least 2027, while there is tremendous competition for his signature. Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are already in the race, while Barcelona, PSG, Atletico Madrid, RB Leipzig, Borussia Dortmund, Juventus and Marseille are also keeping him under close watch.

Final Thoughts

Chelsea have developed a habit of picking up the best talents from across the world in recent times, and now have an enviable ensemble at their disposal. It is an area that United have lagged behind in recent years, although they have made progress of late.

The Red Devils have a rich history of promoting and nurturing youth, and one feels that this strategy will certainly help them return to the glory days. Signing a talent like Tapsoba ahead of the competition would also be a statement of intent from the Premier League giants and send the right message to fans.

Featured image Christopher Furlong via Getty Images

online polls

The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social