Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool 'all battling for Assane Diao'

Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool are all reportedly interested in signing Real Betis attacker Assane Diao during next summer's transfer window.

The 18-year-old has made the breakthrough into the first team at his La Liga club this season, featuring on 11 occasions in all competitions, scoring four times in the process.

Diao has managed one goal in three Europa League appearances this term, while he has two goals in seven La Liga outings, becoming a key player for his club over the last couple of months.

Real Betis managed to sign the teenager to a new contract over the summer, with his current terms due to run until June 2027, but according to Estadio Deportivo, there is a €30m (£26.2m) release clause in the agreement.

The report claims that a number of Premier League clubs are lining up, with Man United, Chelsea and Liverpool potentially battling for his signature in the summer of 2024.

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Newcastle United are also said to be keeping a close eye on his situation with a view to potentially making a move at the end of the current season.

Chelsea have allegedly already spoken to Diao's agent, while Man United and Liverpool are said to be 'well-positioned' in the race for his signature.

Real Betis are believed to be hopeful that they might be able to agree a new deal with Diao which would see his release clause rise, potentially to €40m (£35m).

The attacker was born in Senegal but moved to Spain at the age of three, and he has represented the European nation at Under-18s, Under-19s and Under-21s level.

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Diao is believed to have been a central midfielder during his youth career but has since been converted to a winger, playing off both the left and the right this season.

A move in January is seen as unlikely, although Real Betis would be in a difficult position if a club were to activate the release clause in his contract.

Man United are expected to move for a new forward in January, as Jadon Sancho is preparing to depart following his falling-out with Red Devils head coach Erik ten Hag.

Chelsea are also in the market for another attacker, while Liverpool and Newcastle remain keen to boost their options in the final third of the field.