Manchester United are reportedly keeping close tabs on Fenerbahce youngster Yusuf Akcicek who has already won Jose Mourinho’s favour.
The Istanbul native is a rising defender with an imposing physique who started his career at Galatasaray’s academy before making the switch to the other side of the Bosphorus and join their arch rivals Fenerbahce.
This season, the 19-year-old was promoted to the first team under the guidance of Mourinho who has been giving him a more prominent role as of late. The teenager has already made 15 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring two goals and providing an assist, thus piquing the interest of a host of European giants.
But according to CaughtOffside, Man United are amongst the young man’s most interested admirers. The Red Devils will be determined to find a way to lure Akcicek to Old Trafford next summer.
The Turkish talent would be a timely addition to Ruben Amorim’s defensive department, especially with Victor Lindelof and Johny Evans set to leave after seeing out their contracts.
Moreover, Akcicek ability to play either as a centre-back or a left-back marks him as a replacement for Lisandro Martinez who could miss the start of the upcoming campaign due to an ACL injury.
Man Utd keen to prevail in the race for Yusuf Akcicek
However, the Reds must be prepared for an intense battle for the youngster’s services. As the source explains, Arsenal, Tottenham, Brighton, Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen, Ajax, Atletico Madrid and Napoli are all considered potential suitors for the teenager who is valued at circa €20 million.
Interestingly, Mourinho has recently claimed that Akcicek could go on to replicate the success of the recently-retired Raphael Varane on the big stage.
“He was amazing. I’m very proud of him and I trust him. He’s not perfect but he will be perfect,” said the Special One.
“I don’t want to compare him to Rapha Varane because Varane has won four Champions Leagues, World Cup and won everything. But I had Rapha Varane when he was 18 and I was not wrong. And I am not wrong with this kid. (He has a) big personality and is very confident.”
