Aleksey Batrakov: UK sanctions force United to admit defeat | OneFootball

Under INEOS, Manchester United have done well when it comes to attracting the top young talents from across the globe.

Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven, and Diego Leon are just some of the recent examples of their youth-first policy.

However, the Red Devils seem to have faltered when it comes to their pursuit of Lokomotiv Moscow’s Aleksey Batrakov.

The 20-year-old has been making waves in Russia, scoring 17 times while registering 12 assists last season.

Why United scouts were blown away by Aleksey Batrakov

His form has attracted the interest of multiple Premier League giants, including United, Manchester City and Chelsea.

However, Teamtalk have revealed that Paris Saint-Germain are close to scooping up the attacking midfielder due to UK sanctions.

Direct transfer dealings between English and Russian clubs are not allowed due to the Ukraine conflict, which has allowed PSG a free run at the Russian international.

“Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City have all been left frustrated in their attempts to position themselves for Aleksey Batrakov, with Paris Saint-Germain now closing in on a deal for the highly-rated Russian starlet, TEAMtalk sources confirm.

How PSG won the race despite United’s best efforts

“We understand that scouts across the Premier League regard Batrakov as one of the finest young attacking talents in world football.

“TEAMtalk understands that Man Utd, Chelsea and Man City have all closely monitored the youngster through their Eastern European scouting networks and have been hugely impressed by his development.

“Sources say Premier League clubs have explored a variety of avenues in an attempt to determine whether a deal could be possible, but current regulations mean there is effectively no route for English clubs to sign Batrakov directly from Lokomotiv Moscow.”

Both Chelsea and City tried to sign him via their multi-club model while United tried loan arrangements. But “their hands are tied” and the Champions League winners look on course to win the race.

Feature image Christopher Furlong via Getty Images

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