Chelsea and Man Utd unearth new wonderkid: 18-year-old set for big future

Chelsea and Manchester United have expressed an interest in RB Salzburg youngster Kerim Alajbegovic, according to a report.

The 18-year-old is making a name for himself in Austria, having joined Salzburg in the summer from Bayer Leverkusen for €2 million. Alajbegovic has already made 20 appearances, scoring six goals and providing one assist.

Despite his youth, the Cologne-born winger is a four-time senior Bosnia and Herzegovina international and the youngest goalscorer in the nation’s history after notching a goal and an assist against San Marino in September.

Alajbegovic looks to be the latest wonderkid produced by the prolific talent factory that is RB Salzburg, and interest in his services is naturally increasing given his exploits at such a young age.

According to Sky Germany, the first movements are taking place behind the scenes, with several European giants showing a tentative interest in the precocious teenager.

Chelsea, Man Utd keen on Alejbegovic

The report states that Chelsea, Man Utd and Porto have begun gathering information on Alajbegovic with a view to a future move. It is emphasised that the situation is still in its infancy, but the 18-year-old will be one to watch going forward.

The Bosnian only joined Salzburg in the summer and is understood to be loving life with the Red Bulls right now, so he won’t rush into a quick departure in January. There is an awareness that it is better for him to consistently play right now than to sit on the bench at a big club.

Despite the high-profile interest in his services, his former club Leverkusen have an ace up their sleeve. They recognised his talent and made sure to insert a buy-back clause in their deal with Salzburg.

It is, therefore, possible that Alajbegovic could first return to Germany before taking his next step elsewhere. For now, though, the prospect is enhancing his reputation in Austria, playing regularly and impressing.

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