Man Utd defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka 'approached over international switch' after latest England snub
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The entourage of Manchester United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka have reportedly held talks with the DR Congo national team over the player representing them instead of England.
Wan-Bissaka was born in London, and came through the Crystal Palace youth academy, but is also eligible to play for DR Congo through his father.
The 25-year-old has only been called up to a senior England squad under Gareth Southgate once - eventually having to withdraw due to injury - even after some of his most impressive performances for Palace and United.
He has, however, represented England at U20 and U21 level, having also played for DR Congo at U20 level.
Because Wan-Bissaka has not played a competitive game at senior level for either nation, his options remain open over who to represent at international level.
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He was again snubbed by England for their latest squad to take on Italy and Ukraine in Euro 2024 qualifiers, though was never realistically considered to be in contention.
That was not the case for Euro 2020, however, when he was regarded as a credible option for Southgate following an impressive first two seasons at United.
In an interview with the London Evening Standard in 2019, the defender stated that he was happy to continue representing England.
Now, he could soon be making a final decision over which nation he is eligible to represent.
Wan-Bissaka agent holds DR Congo talks
According to local outlet Leopard Football Leader, the DR Congo boss Sebastien Desabre 'spoke at length' with the family and entourage of Wan-Bissaka in an attempt to convince the player to represent the nation.
It is claimed that the discussions were considered 'positive', and DR Congo's chances could be increased should they qualify for the 2024 African Cup of Nations.
Beyond that, the nation will also look to qualify for the 2026 edition of the World Cup, which will include 48 teams instead of the usual 32.
They have only qualified once for the World Cup - in 1974 - but do currently have a number of players who feature in Europe's top five leagues, including Brentford's Yoann Wissa, Marseille's Chancel Mbemba and Stuttgart's Silas.
Furthermore, the same source claims that Wan-Bissaka's United team-mate Axel Tuanzebe, who is currently on loan at Championship side Stoke, was also approached to play for DR Congo.
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Topics: Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Manchester United, Premier League, England, Gareth Southgate
