Manchester United are reportedly negotiating a deal for Velez Sarsfield teenager Thiago Almada; a 19-year-old forward tipped as the new Lionel Messi.
Almada, who has made 25 appeaances for the Primera Division side this season, is one of the hottest prospects in Argentina right now, with Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola being noted as one of his many admirers.
And according to Fichajes, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side 'want to tie up' a deal for the youngster as soon as possible.
United chiefs feel the attacking midfielder could be a 'useful addition' to the current squad, and would bring versatility with his 'speed, dribbling and great vision'.
Last year, Manchester City were linked with a £20 million move for Almada, and there were suggestions that the Premier League side would loan him to feeder club Girona in order to make it happen because of work permit issues.
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Of course, a deal never materialised but it appears that rivals Manchester United are now keen on in bringing the Argentinian playmaker to Old Trafford instead.
Almada has a €22 million release clause for this window, which will undoubtably bring plenty of suitors in the window.
Atletico Madrid and Arsenal have also expressed an interest in the player, according to Fichajes.
Of course, many have been dubbed the new Messi in the past and have struggled to live up to expectation.
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Arsenal forward Ryo Miyaichi, who was famed for his incredible turn of speed, never quite made the grade after loan spells at Bolton and Wigan, and former Dundee United player Ryan Gauld struggled after signing for Sporting Lisbon with the 'Messi' tag.
That being said, well-known Football Manager wonderkid Thiago Almada looks the real deal.
Thoughts on United going in for the Argentinian wonderkid?
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Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit: Thiago Almada/InstagramTopics: Football News, Football, Manchester United, Transfers
