Johan Manzambi: Arsenal take big step to beat Man United to wonderkid | OneFootball

Arsenal have reportedly made a bold move in an effort to pip Manchester United and Chelsea to the signing of Freiburg prodigy Johan Manzambi.

United want Manzambi

It’s an open secret that United are in the market for midfield reinforcements ahead of the next transfer window

Casemiro announced he will leave the club at the end of the season once his contract expires, while there is also uncertainty over the future of Bruno Fernandes. United are open to selling Manuel Ugarte following his underwhelming spell so far, while talks with Kobbie Mainoo’s camp over a new deal are yet to bear fruit.

United’s top midfield targets include Adam Wharton, Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba, Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes. Most, if not all, of the players on this list are likely to cost exorbitant sums that may severely limit the Red Devils, especially if they want more than one acquisition.

This is where cheaper alternatives like Manzambi come in.

Manzambi has taken the Bundesliga by storm, catching the eye with his dominant performances for Freiburg. Like Jude Bellingham, he has been likened to German football legend Michael Ballack and there is real excitement about his abilities and potential if well nurtured.

Primarily a box-to-box midfielder, Manzambi is a monster dribbler who also has an eye for goal. He has made 19 top-flight appearances this term, contributing three strikes and as many assists.

A report covered by The Peoples Person claimed that the Switzerland international is not only on United’s radar, but also Arsenal and Chelsea. Bayern Munich have also been credited with an interest in him.

Now, TEAMtalk have revealed that Arsenal have opened talks in an attempt to steal a march on their rivals in the race for Manzambi.

Latest on Manzambi

According to the news outlet, “Manchester United have scouted him and are tracking the situation. The Red Devils view Manzambi as a candidate to to join amid their midfield rebuild.”

“Arsenal have also scouted him, identifying a player who could grow into something elite. The Gunners have explored options with Freiburg, but talks have only been early and nothing concrete.”

“Chelsea complete a formidable Premier League trio, aligning with their strategy of investing in high-potential youth.”

TEAMtalk name Bayer Leverkusen, Paris Saint-Germain and Galatasaray as the other parties keeping close tabs on Manzambi.

The 20-year-old is valued at a fee in the region of €50million (£43m). It remains to be seen whether United are willing to meet this price tag.

Featured image Mattia Ozbot via Getty Images

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