Manchester United set to battle AC Milan for Ligue 1 wonderkid

Manchester United and AC Milan look set for a transfer battle as both of them want to sign the highly-rated Ligue 1 wonderkid.

While talking about the modern managers of Premier League, three names stand out are that of Manchester United’s Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta and Chelsea’s Frank Lampard.

And with two of them looking very likely to get the sack if their teams’ performances don’t improve, it is United’s Norwegian gaffer that looks all set to transform his side from one that looked doomed for a mid-table finish to being Premier League title challengers.

Manchester United are currently in touching distance of Liverpool, and are being considered as title contenders by both fans and pundits after the incredible consistency they have shown since their elimination from the Champions League.

But while there is a growing surge of optimism around what the Red Devils have accomplished of late, there remain several issues that need some addressing from the manager.

Paul Pogba’s uncertain future belongs to that category. The France international is understood to be leaving in the next summer transfer window, with suitors such as Real Madrid and Juventus looking to secure the 27-year-old midfielder’s signature next summer.

Today’s footballing world doesn’t offer an array of midfielders who can match Pogba’s quality. As such, it would be difficult, if not impossible, to identify a replacement for the French maestro.

More from Manchester United News

• Aaron Wan Bissaka out for ‘several weeks’ with injury
• Sofyan Amrabat set to miss game against Brighton
• Preview: Manchester United vs Brighton – What you need to know
• Jadon Sancho set to train away from first team squad
• Mike Phelan blasts Manchester United teammates over Ronaldo exit

The Red Devils have been monitoring Lille midfielder Boubakary Soumare for more than a year now. But the talks have never reached the advanced stages. But the interest endures, as suggested by the recently published report.

A story from The Sun believes that Manchester United are ‘battling’ AC Milan for the signature of the 21-year-old Lille midfielder. Another report from the French outlet L’Equipe (via Calciomercato), however, understands that Soumare is not for sale in January.

While AC Milan are reportedly looking to sign him on loan, United are determined to get a permanent move done. Soumare’s contract with the French club is set to run out in June 2023. The reports believe he won’t sign an extension and would rather go elsewhere.

Soumare has made 20 appearances for the Ligue 1 side this campaign, predominantly playing as a defensive midfielder. Should a switch not happen in January, a summer move could be on the cards, with both Manchester United and AC Milan supposed to be in the running for his signature.