Given the ongoing financial implications of the coronavirus pandemic, clubs around Europe are looking for ways to potentially boost their cash flow in future years.
One method which is seemingly being considered is the purchase of a prospect from another team, with the possibility of being able to make a significant profit in a later transfer window.
According to The Athletic, a number of Bundesliga teams may take the opportunity to sign Manchester United youngster Deji Sotona, who is still only on scholarship forms at Old Trafford.
With the teenager yet to feature in a first-team squad, Sports Mole takes a look at the highly-regarded youngster.
Where does he play?
While the 17-year-old can play across the forward line, his pace means that he is often used as a winger.
Sotona is said to have reached a speed of 22.9mph when undergoing tests with the senior squad in September.
How has he performed this season?
On the face of it, a return of five goals and two assists from 20 outings in the youth ranks does not come across as anything special.
However, Sotona has only completed the full match on eight occasions, often being used as a substitute during the earlier part of the campaign.
Before football was suspended, Sotona had just produced his two most significant contributions for United, firstly netting the winner against Wigan Athletic in the FA Youth Cup quarter-finals.
Ten days later, the attacker recorded a double to help United to a 3-2 triumph away at Everton in the U18 Premier League.
Sotona was also provided with the full 90 minutes in an EFL Trophy fixture at Tranmere Rovers in December.
International experience?
Sotona has represented Republic of Ireland at youth level. When football resumes, his target will be to establish himself with either the Under-18s or Under-19s.
Is he likely to feature in the starting lineup?
Whether Sotona was to join a Bundesliga club competing at the top or bottom end of the table, he would be unlikely to be provided with an immediate opportunity in the first team.
While appearances may be made in cup competitions and from the substitutes' bench, Sotona may spend at least a season in a second-string setup, with his 18th birthday not due until December.
Darren Plant
