Manchester United take interest in U17 AFCON star | OneFootball

Manchester United appear to have taken an interest in Yeleen Olympique player Soungalo Coulibaly.

At 16 years old, the attacker has been called up to represent Mali’s national team at the U17 African Cup of Nations.

“According to information gathered by Africafoot, Manchester United scouts have been closely monitoring the young winger’s performances during the Aiglonnets’ three group matches,” Africafoot reported. “According to our sources, discussions are already underway to secure Coulibaly’s future within the Red Devils’ academy.”

“Boasting impressive technique, blazing speed, and a keen dribbling ability capable of shattering any defense, Coulibaly leaves no one indifferent. As exclusively reported by Africafoot, clubs such as Salzburg, Sturm Graz, and Tottenham are also poised to enter the race.”

“Manchester United, well aware of the young Malian’s potential, are reportedly willing to put a significant sum on the table to gain an advantage in this highly sought-after position,” the report continued.

Coulibaly has made an emphatic start to the ongoing AFCON tournament, scoring the winning goal in Mali’s 2-1 victory over Angola in their opening group stage game.

Finishing second in their group, Mali is set to face Tunisia in their quarter-final match.

The Malian rising star could prove to be a worthwhile talent for United to acquire, particularly as the club seeks to improve its attacking fortunes.

Striker Rasmus Hojlund has struggled to adjust to life at Old Trafford, while Joshua Zirkzee has been used on the wings, given the team’s lack of options due to injuries.

While Chido Obi has emerged as a promising teenage talent up front, it would not be feasible for United to place all of their attacking responsibilities on the teenager.

Although short-term attacking options are clearly needed for Ruben Amorim going into next season, it would make sense for United to acquire younger talents with whom they can build toward the future.

Still, the team would do well not to overpay for the likes of Coulibaly as has happened multiple times in the past.

Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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