Manchester United have reportedly identified Sporting Lisbon wonderkid Abdul Fatawu Issahaku as a potential future transfer target.
During the summer window, head coach Erik ten Hag focused on signing players who could make an immediate impact in the United first team.
The Dutchman has also recently handed a number of starts of Argentine youngster Alejandro Garnacho, a further indication that he wants to find a balance regarding his senior squad.
Nevertheless, United are frequently assessing their options elsewhere when it comes to prospects, and it appears that a teenager at Sporting has caught their eye.
According to O Jogo, United are ready to send scouts to assess the development of Issahaku, who is seemingly in line to feature at the World Cup.
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Despite being just 18 years of age, Issahaku has already earned 13 caps for Ghana and is in line to be named in the final 26-player squad.
While the teenager is yet to make a start for Sporting in Primeira Liga or the Champions League this campaign, he has been provided with five substitute appearances.
The most recent of those came in the European fixture at Tottenham Hotspur on October 26, Issahaku being introduced for the final 19 minutes when Sporting were attempting to defend a one-goal lead.
That show of faith arguably highlights how highly that Issahaku is regarded at Sporting, and the Portuguese giants now face a fight to retain his services.
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Sporting are in a strong position, however, with the starlet possessing a contract at Estadio Jose Alvalade until the end of 2025-26.
Spurs, who had first-hand experience of facing the winger last month, are also said to hold an interest, as are Liverpool and Everton.
Although a potential fee is not mentioned, it would be far in excess of Issahaku's €3m valuation on Transfermrket.
Representing Ghana in Qatar would also see his currently-undetermined asking price sky-rocket with no transfer realistic until at least the summer of 2023.
Darren Plant
