Manchester United have reportedly engaged in talks with the representatives of talented young player Oghenetejiri Adejenughure, a Nigerian-Austrian, to explore the possibility of a transfer to Old Trafford during the upcoming summer transfer window.
The 17-year-old, currently under contract with Red Bull Salzburg, is yet to make his debut for the senior team.
Last season, Adejenughure impressively scored 16 goals in 20 appearances for the Under-18s team, and he has also showcased his abilities by netting eight goals in 12 games for Austria’s Under-17 squad.
While other clubs like AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund are monitoring the young forward, reports suggest that Manchester United has shown genuine interest as well.
According to sources, discussions have already taken place between Red Devils and the player’s representatives regarding a potential move to the English club, which has clinched the Premier League title 20 times.
Former Man United interim head coach Ralf Rangnick, who now leads the Austrian national team, reportedly views Adejenughure as a future star in the making.
Should Adejenughure stay at Salzburg, it’s anticipated he would feature for the team’s second-tier side in Austria. However, several clubs are vying to secure a deal for the in-demand player.
The youngster, who is also eligible to represent Nigeria, is reportedly on the verge of earning a call-up to the senior Austrian national team. The upcoming 2024/24 season is poised to be a breakthrough period for this sought-after talent.
Man United’s new minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe is focusing on nurturing young talents as part of the club’s strategy, signaling a shift away from splurging on older players.
In the previous season, 21-year-old Rasmus Hojlund emerged as the top scorer with 16 goals across all competitions for the club.
Another young talent, 19-year-old Alejandro Garnacho, contributed with 10 goals and five assists in 50 appearances in the 2023-24 campaign, while Kobbie Mainoo, also 19, tallied five goals and an assist in 32 matches.
Interestingly, Hojlund, Garnacho, and Mainoo are believed to be among the six players deemed non-negotiable for sale at Old Trafford. Additionally, 17-year-old Harry Amass and 18-year-old Ethan Wheatley were integrated into the senior squad towards the conclusion of the last season.