Chelsea and Man Utd eye U17 World Cup winner

Manchester United and Chelsea are among the clubs keeping an eye on towering Germany youngster Max Moerstedt, according to a report.

The 17-year-old impressed at the U17 World Cup in Indonesia and played a crucial role in his country taking home the trophy. His four goals in six games were only bettered by Borussia Dortmund wonderkid Paris Brunner in terms of the team’s scoring charts.

Moerstedt plays his club football for Hoffenheim after making the switch from Bayern Munich’s academy in 2021. Despite his youth, he already stands at an imperious 6’4″ (194 cm) and this is quite useful given that he still plays youth football.

The striker has notched 10 goals and two assists in nine U19 Bundesliga fixtures this term. He has also scored four times and recorded two assists in just two youth DFB-Pokal games, illustrating that he is ready to break into the Hoffenheim first team. Indeed, according to 90min, it is only a matter of time before American boss Pellegrino Matarazzo calls him up to the seniors.

The controversial Bundesliga club haven’t been afraid to give youth a chance, with young forward Maximilian Beier (21) starring for them this season. Teenagers Umut Tohumcu (19) and Tom Bischoff (18) have also been given the opportunities to shine this term; Moerstedt could be next in line.

Man Utd, Chelsea interested

According to the above-mentioned report, Moerstedt’s performances at the youth level haven’t gone unnoticed by bigger clubs. The likes of Chelsea, Man Utd, Juventus, Atalanta and Brighton are all said to be keeping tabs on the 17-year-old.

The youngster is under contract until 2026 and turns 18 in January. Hoffenheim are well aware that they have a gem on their hands, but keeping hold of him could be a struggle if he continues on his current trajectory.

His U19 boss recently told SWR: “Max is a very complete striker, he makes intelligent runs and is intelligent with his pressing. He has a good nose for chances in the penalty area and is technically sound with his finishing.” His idol is former Germany and Bayern striker Mario Gomez.