Sunderland ‘to battle’ Arsenal and Man City for Hearts youngster Alfie Osborne | OneFootball

Sunderland are among several Premier League clubs tracking Hearts prospect Alfie Osborne, with leading rivals also monitoring the 17-year-old.

According to TEAMtalk, Arsenal and Manchester City sent scouts to watch him for Scotland U19s in midweek. Despite a 3-0 defeat to Italy, he was viewed as a standout in defence.

Osborne has impressed in Hearts’ youth ranks at Tynecastle this season, moving from central midfield into the heart of the back line.

Sunderland, Leeds United, Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Fulham are also understood to have checked on him recently.

Given his age, current regulations mean English sides could sign him for compensation believed to be below £250,000. Hearts are aiming to avoid that outcome and have pushed for a new long-term deal in Edinburgh. For now, Osborne is said to be open to a move, which could set up a summer battle for his signature.

Source: Sunderland Echo