Manchester United are aiming to beat Barcelona to the signing of a young star dubbed the “Malian Messi,” although Rúben Amorim’s side may need to use a secret weapon to secure him.
Manchester United have been very active so far ahead of the summer window, with Rúben Amorim’s men looking to secure multiple transfers as early as they can.
The Red Devils are poised to bring in reinforcements to change their club’s fortunes on the pitch, especially in the Premier League, where their rivals have just matched their record of 20 league titles, Liverpool.
The club are already closing in on signing Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha within the next few days, while United are also keen to push for the transfer of Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap before 1 June.
Aside from forward targets, United are aiming to have quality in midfield next season. While the club hierarchy are making progress with bringing in first-team players for Amorim, United are also eyeing young midfield and attacking talents to add to their Academy set-up.
United eyeing move for Maiga
According to a new report from TBR Football, United are among clubs chasing African talent Aboubacar Maiga this summer.
The report states that the 15-year-old, who has been nicknamed the “Malian Messi” within football circles, is drawing interest from Barcelona, United, Manchester City, and Chelsea.
However, the La Liga side holds an advantage due to their good relationship with the Academie Africa Foot, to which Maiga is currently contracted.
With United undoubtedly needing to utilise every advantage they have to secure Maiga this summer, Amorim’s team may have to call on his compatriot Sekou Kone as a secret transfer to persuade Maiga to forgo Barcelona’s interest and transfer to Manchester instead.
Why is Maiga so special?
United’s policy of securing moves for young players before their values skyrocket has led them to acquire several young talents, such as Kone, Chido Obi, and Ayden Heaven. Maiga certainly fits this mould.
The 15-year-old, born in Jun 2009, can play as both an attacking midfielder and a winger, and has been touted as one of the most exciting young talents in African football.
His comparisons to Barcelona great Lionel Messi stem from his creativity, dribbling, and eye for the game, while he has also proven himself to be a leader.
Maiga is the current captain of Mali’s U16 national team, and although he is right-footed, he is a player who is comfortable with either, making him an ideal profile within Amorim’s set-up in the future.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 12:30 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.