Man Utd interested in signing Brian Gutierrez as Erik ten Hag plots move for 'incredible' MLS star

Manchester United are interested in signing Chicago Fire starlet Brian Gutierrez this summer, according to a new report.

The 19-year-old has featured regularly in Major League Soccer this season, providing four assists in 15 appearances.

Gutierrez has represented United States at youth levels, although was recently denied the opportunity to represent his nation at the U20 World Cup due to his importance to his domestic side.

Fire are currently second-bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference with just three wins from 16 games so far this season, but Gutierrez has still shown his star qualities.

And the Daily Mail claim that Erik ten Hag's United have been tracking his performances with a view to a possible offer this summer. In addition, Borussia Dortmund, Rangers and RB Leipzig are said to be keen.

Man Utd want Gutierrez

The Mail claim that, while United have been keeping an eye on the midfielder, it would be difficult for the midfielder to get a work permit to play in England as a result of regulations enforced following Brexit.

Gutierrez would struggle to reach the points threshold required in order to get a work permit, especially as he is yet to make his debut for the USA senior national team.

However, that may not stop United signing the 19-year-old and loaning him out to a top European league in order to gain a work permit.

Gutierrez has been described as 'incredible' by Fire head coach Frank Klopas, who said in May after a 1-0 win over St Louis City (quotes via Goal): "Right now, [he] is at a different level and he can continue. He's going to continue to grow and take more responsibility upon himself.

"Today, he was incredible. Good with the ball, his work rate, key passes, ability to beat players, technical ability - he's got everything in my mind.

"And you can just see year by year, I've seen him grow and mature even when he was on Fire Academy. He's really playing like a man now."

If Gutierrez does join United, he would become the seventh American player signed to a Premier League club at senior level. If he does not gain a work permit, however, he would not be able to be registered.