Sunderland ‘to battle’ Arsenal and Man City for youth international defender | OneFootball

Sunderland are among several Premier League clubs tracking Hearts teenager Alfie Osborne, with Arsenal and Manchester City also watching, according to TEAMtalk.

The 17-year-old has impressed in Hearts' youth ranks this season, moving from central midfield to centre-back.

Scouts from Arsenal and City watched him for Scotland under-19s in midweek, the report said, and despite a 3-0 defeat to Italy he was widely viewed as a standout at the back.

Sunderland, Leeds United, Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Fulham are also monitoring Osborne and have carried out recent checks.

Because of his age, English clubs could sign him for compensation believed to be under £250,000. Hearts are keen to avoid that scenario and have pushed a new long-term deal. As things stand, Osborne is understood to be open to a move, which could prompt a summer tussle for his signature.

Source: Sunderland Echo