Man United reject Chelsea move for player Ten Hag is big fan of

Manchester United have rejected a bid from Chelsea to sign wonderkid Alejandro Garnacho, according to reports.

The 18-year-old Argentina youth international has become a regular fixture in the United squad over recent months, scoring the winning goal in their most recent Premier League match, a 2-1 win over Fulham, in November.

Garnacho began the season on the fringes of the first-team squad, but quickly worked his way into Erik ten Hag's thinking with some fine performances in the Europa League.

He scored in United's final group stage game against Real Sociedad, and was rewarded with his first Premier League start of the season against Aston Villa on November 6.

After providing two assists in the 4-2 Carabao Cup victory over the same opponent four days later, Ten Hag praised Garnacho.

He said: "He still has things to learn, but it's quite obvious we are really happy with his development, with his performance tonight, and he can contribute to this team.

"Can he have a regular role? Depends on how his approach, how his attitude, when he keeps working, keeps this attitude, then it's possible."

As per the Manchester Evening News, United are in talks with one of their star youngsters over a new, improved contract, with his current deal expiring in 2024, plus an optional one-year extension.

But Chelsea are reportedly aiming to convince the attacking midfielder to join them instead.

Man Utd 'reject Chelsea Garnacho move'

According to journalist Simon Phillips, Chelsea have made an approach for Garnacho as they look to profit on the uncertainty surrounding the player's future.

But United turned the approach down, with the club keen to keep him at Old Trafford for the long-term.

They will be desperate to avoid a scenario similar to that of Paul Pogba, who rejected a contract offer in 2012 before making the switch to Juventus on a free transfer.

The Frenchman developed into one of the best box-to-box midfielders in the world during his time in Italy, and whilst he produced some magical moments following his return in 2016, was not able to fully deliver consistently before leaving the club on a free transfer last summer.

United fans will want to avoid losing Garnacho at this stage, and instead be able to watch him light up Old Trafford for many years to come.