Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United are reportedly keeping a close eye on 20-year-old Borussia Monchengladbach full-back Luca Netz.
Identified as a potential superstar since his youth, the left-back, born in Berlin, emerged through the ranks at Hertha Berlin but struggled to secure a lasting place in the club's lineup.
After Monchengladbach acquired him for a fee of less than £2m, his first season at Borussia-Park proved to be challenging.
Despite experiencing an increase in league appearances, he frequently served as a substitute, and the situation deteriorated further in the following season when he played less than 700 minutes.
This season, though, Netz has enjoyed a real resurgence, having started 19 matches and made two substitute appearances in the Bundesliga, during which time he has contributed three assists.
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According to a report from HITC, his performances this season have attracted attention from several top clubs, including Arsenal, Chelsea, Man United and Newcastle United in recent weeks.
It is further understood that West Ham United also scouted him earlier in the season.
The Red Devils have faced several defensive challenges this term, particularly due to injuries affecting both of their left-backs for the majority of the campaign.
For Arsenal, Oleksandr Zinchenko is about the only specialist left-back available for the club at the moment and while the former Manchester City man has been impressive for Mikel Arteta's side, more depth in that position is likely to be required next season.
In the case of Chelsea - despite spending a significant sum to acquire Marc Cucurella from Brighton & Hove Albion, the Spaniard has largely failed to meet expectations.
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As a result, there is a possibility that Cucurella could be sold at the end of the season, and Netz could potentially fit the bill as his replacement, providing ideal competition for Ben Chilwell.
Bayern Munich, who are anticipating the departure of Alphonso Davies at the end of the current season, will also be in the market for a replacement and could be tempted at the prospect of attracting the Germany Under-21 defender.
Adi Hutter, who previously worked with Netz at Monchengladbach and currently serves as the head coach of AS Monaco, holds the young player in high regard.
In a statement quoted by BulliNews in March 2022, Hutter said, "Luca is a young player who has yet to fully mature before reaching his peak potential. However, it's enjoyable to witness the development of such a remarkable talent. He possesses a carefree attitude, yet is also bold. Luca is poised to become a significant figure for Gladbach in the future."
Borussia Monchengladbach currently sit 12th in the Bundesliga standings with 26 points after 24 games.
Devesh Jaganath
