Manchester United is reportedly in discussions with the representatives of promising Nigerian-Austrian teenager Oghenetejiri Adejenughure regarding a potential move to Old Trafford this summer.
The 17-year-old forward, currently under contract with Red Bull Salzburg, has yet to make an appearance for the Austrian club’s senior squad.
However, Adejenughure made a significant impact at the youth level, scoring 16 goals in 20 matches for Salzburg’s Under-18 team last season.
His impressive performances extend to the international stage, where he has netted eight goals in 12 appearances for Austria’s Under-17 team.
The young prodigy has attracted interest from several top European clubs, including AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund. According to a report by The Express, Manchester United has now joined the race for his signature.
The report suggests that the Red Devils have already initiated talks with Adejenughure’s advisors to explore the possibility of bringing the talented forward to the Premier League.
Notably, Austrian head coach Ralf Rangnick, who previously served as interim manager at Manchester United, has reportedly identified Adejenughure as a future star.
Should Adejenughure remain with Salzburg, he is expected to feature for their reserve team in Austria’s second division.
However, the mounting interest from elite clubs suggests a potential transfer could be on the horizon.
Adejenughure, eligible to represent both Nigeria and Austria, is reportedly close to earning a senior call-up for Austria.
The upcoming 2024/25 season is anticipated to be a breakthrough year for the in-demand forward.
Manchester United’s new minority shareholder, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is reportedly focused on youth development as part of his strategy at Old Trafford.
This shift in strategy means the club is less likely to pursue expensive, seasoned veterans.
In line with this youth-centric approach, Rasmus Hojlund, 21, emerged as the club’s top scorer last season with 16 goals across all competitions.
Similarly, 19-year-old Alejandro Garnacho contributed 10 goals and five assists in 50 appearances, while Kobbie Mainoo, also 19, added five goals and one assist in 32 games.
These young talents are among six “unsellable” players at the club, highlighting Manchester United’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
Additionally, teenagers Harry Amass and Ethan Wheatley were involved with the first team towards the end of last season.
The potential acquisition of Oghenetejiri Adejenughure aligns with Manchester United’s renewed focus on building a future-ready squad brimming with youthful potential.
As the summer transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on Old Trafford to see if this promising young forward will become the latest addition to their burgeoning roster of young stars.
