Man United eye-up Ajax wonderkid dubbed ‘the next Jude Bellingham’ – as Red Devils get set to target young stars with high potential this summer

Manchester United are showing interest in Ajax teenager Abdellah Ouazane.

Club scouts watched the 16-year old steal the show at the U17 Africa Cup of Nations Championships in Morocco last week as he guided the host country towards a semi-final place against Ivory Coast this Tuesday.

Though born in Amsterdam, Ouazane has starred for Morocco and has arguably been the stand-out player of the tournament, despite being a year younger than most of his rivals.

Athletic, excellent on the ball, Ouazane is a versatile midfielder with strong dribbling ability and an eye for both a goal and a pass.

He joined Ajax from Zeeburgia in 2016, alongside his older brother Zakaria who is a striker, and has been likened in style to Jude Bellingham.

Morocco coach Nabil Baha said: ‘He’s a player we count on a lot. He can make the difference. He was born in 2009 — people forget that. He’s a year younger than the others. But he plays at Ajax, and he’s full of talent.

Ouazane (left, in action for Netherlands Under 15), has shone for Morocco at the U17 AFCON

With a limited budget, United will look at more young players with higher potential this summer

The former Morocco international added: ‘These days, 100 per cent isn’t enough. Everyone gives 100 per cent. What we need is 120 per cent. And he’s capable of that.’

United are continuing to monitor his performances but are contemplating an approach to Ajax as interest from rival suitors begins to build.

The club are limited budget wise to what they can do at first team level this summer with a lot depending on who they can sell. 

However, they are looking at more young players with higher potential as they look to build a stronger infrastructure beneath first team level.

They have also checked on Sheffield United’s 18-year old Ryan One though Ipswich Town are expected to bid this summer. 

Striker One is viewed as a possible replacement for Liam Delap who is top of Manchester United’s wish list this summer owing to his £30m clause if Ipswich go down.

United also want £62.5m Wolves forward Matheus Cunha but need to sell the likes of Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Antony.