Exclusive: Man United rising star who’s being fast-tracked at centre of England vs Spain battle
Manchester United wonderkid Darlington Osuchukwu is at the centre of a tug-of-war between England and Spain, sources have told Football Insider.
The 16-year-old is well regarded by Man United and has developed into one of the most exciting young goalkeeper in Europe since joining the club three years ago, following his families migration from Spain.
Osuchukwu made his debut for Spain under-17s in a friendly against the Czech Republic last week, where he produced a textbook display.
England, however, are not prepared to lose out on this special talent. The 6ft 3in goalie has been called up by the Three Lions at under-15 and under-16 level.
Discussions are underway at the Football Association about fast tracking Osuchukwu through the various age groups to ensure he stays with England.
Osuchukwu is a highly-rated talent at Man United
Murcia-born Osuchukwu has been with the Red Devils for three years, after initially working his way through the Gazte Berriak academy system from the age of five.
Despite only just turning 16 earlier this month, he has already been involved with Darren Fletcher’s United under-18 squad after making the bench against Sunderland in October.
Osuchukwu’s debut for Spain’s U17’s earlier in November saw him on the winning side as they triumphed 4-1 over Czechia and he was given 63 minutes to show what he can do.
Not only is a battle for his services at international level developing, but United could find it tough to keep hold of the 16-year-old too in the years to come as Real Madrid reportedly monitor his progress [Defensa Central].
Man United want to sign teenage Leicester City talent
United’s faith in developing youth is highlighted by their impressive 88-year record of featuring a homegrown player in every matchday squad.
Osuchukwu will be aiming to make his way into the first-team in the next few seasons if he does remain at the club, and he could be joined by another of his highly-rated age-mates and teammate with England’s youth teams.
Football Insider recently revealed that Man United are rivalling Man City to sign Jeremy Monga after a breakout last few months at Leicester City.
Man City and Liverpool pushed to sign Monga in the summer window, but ultimately failed to get a deal over the line, and the Red Devils are now chasing his services too.