Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are among the clubs keen on Yeleen Olympique youngster Soungalo Coulibaly.
That’s according to Africa Foot, who cover Manchester United and Tottenham interest in the 16-year-old.
He’s representing Mali in the ongoing at the U17 African Cup of Nations in Morocco. The forward has scored a goal from three games and attracted attention from scouts from European clubs.
The report states a Manchester United official has closely watched the teenager in all three games in Morocco. The Red Devils have initiated contacts and ‘discussions are already underway’ to try and sign him for their academy.
It’s unclear whether Manchester United contacted his camp, Yeleen Olympique or both.
The Premier League club will face competition from other clubs including Tottenham, Red Bull Salzburg and Sturm Graz. Africa Foot state these three clubs also ‘enter the race’ for Coulibaly.
Manchester United are willing to offer a ‘significant sum’ to try and get ahead in the transfer race.
To describe the attacker, Africa Foot state: ‘Blessed with impressive technique, blazing pace, and a keen dribbling sense capable of shattering any defence, Coulibaly leaves no one indifferent.’
Even if Ruben Amorim’s side or Tottenham were to reach an agreement, Coulibaly won’t be able to arrive in the UK until he turns 18 years of age and then he’d need a work permit.