Chelsea and Manchester United risk losing ground in the race for highly rated Tromso defender Sedi Kinteh, with two Swiss heavyweights emerging as strong contenders for the teenage centre back.
Both Premier League clubs have reportedly stepped up scouting checks on the 19-year-old Gambia international ahead of the summer transfer window, viewing him as a long-term defensive investment.
However, the pursuit has become complicated as Swiss champions Young Boys and domestic giants Basel are pushing to secure the player while their transfer window remains open until February 16. That timeline could hand the Swiss sides a crucial advantage if negotiations accelerate quickly.
Kinteh has rapidly built a reputation as one of Scandinavia’s most promising young defenders, combining composure in possession with physical authority beyond his age.
His performances in Norway’s Eliteserien have drawn admiration from multiple European recruitment teams, particularly because of his ability to operate comfortably as a left-sided central defender, a profile increasingly sought after across elite competitions.
Kinteh’s rise has been shaped by Tromso’s strategic partnership with Senegal-based Mawade Wade academy, where the youngster refined his technical and tactical awareness before making the move to Norway.
Since his arrival, he has developed into a reliable defensive presence, showcasing maturity in positioning and ball distribution that has impressed scouts tracking emerging defensive talents across Europe.
Tromso are understood to value the teenager in the region of £4 million, a fee considered modest given the current market inflation surrounding young defensive prospects.
While Chelsea and Manchester United possess the financial strength and global appeal to attract developing talents, Swiss clubs have built a strong track record of nurturing young players and providing consistent first-team opportunities.
