Manchester United confident of beating rivals to £15m wonderkid from English club
Manchester United are reportedly confident of securing a deal for Leicester City midfielder Louis Page as they prepare to revive their interest in the highly-rated teenager ahead of the January transfer window.
The Red Devils came close to signing the 18-year-old during the summer, but negotiations with Leicester failed to produce an agreement before the transfer deadline. However, they have not abandoned their pursuit and remain determined to bring the promising midfielder to Old Trafford.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, United believe their previous efforts to sign Page could put them in a strong position, although competition for his signature has increased considerably.
Leicester are reportedly prepared to sanction his departure in January, but they want any interested club to agree to two important conditions. The Foxes are keen to keep the youngster on loan until the end of the season, allowing him to continue his development at the King Power Stadium.
They are also demanding a package worth around £15 million, although a substantial portion of the fee could be paid through future instalments.
Louis Page attracting interest from several European giants
The proposed transfer is becoming increasingly complicated for United, with several Premier League rivals also keeping a close eye on the midfielder’s progress.
Manchester City have entered the race after previously signing Leicester youngster Jeremy Monga, while Arsenal and Chelsea have also sent scouts to monitor Page. Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Brighton and Brentford are among the other English clubs to have made enquiries.
Interest from abroad is also strong, with Borussia Dortmund, Real Madrid and Barcelona all keeping tabs on the England youth international.
Can Man United sign Page?
United will need to move decisively if they want to avoid losing another promising young talent to a rival. Jason Wilcox is keen to strengthen the club’s youth recruitment, and Page could be an exciting long-term addition to their midfield.
The teenager’s contract with Leicester runs until 2029, giving the Championship promotion hopefuls a strong negotiating position.
However, United’s previous efforts to secure his signature could prove important when negotiations resume. If they can agree to Leicester’s financial demands and loan-back preference, they could be in a strong position to complete the transfer.
It remains to be seen whether the Red Devils can get the deal over the line in January, but their confidence suggests they are serious about bringing Page to Old Trafford.
