Manchester United are reportedly preparing to battle Chelsea and Newcastle United for the signing of highly-rated Derby County teenager Cruz Allen.
Still only 16 years of age, Allen has caught the attention of some of the Premier League's top clubs with his performances for Derby County's Under-18s side.
The Welsh teenager has recorded three goals and three assists in seven matches in the Premier League Under-18s this season.
According to a report from the Sun, Derby are expecting several bids for Allen in January, and Manchester United are believed to be one of the teams considering a move for the 16-year-old.
The report adds that Chelsea and Newcastle are also believed to be admirers of Allen and have had the Welshman on their radar for a while now.
Man United are on the brink of finalising their 25% stake takeover by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, and the British billionaire is expected to overhaul the club's operations, including its recruitment strategy.
With injuries to several players at different points this season, Erik ten Hag is expected to try and strengthen his squad in the January transfer window, but bringing new blood to Old Trafford is likely to depend on moving existing players out.
Chief among those who look destined for life away from Manchester is Jadon Sancho, who was dropped from the first team after a fallout with Ten Hag a couple of months ago.
Devesh Jaganath
