Manchester United are reportedly keeping tabs on Derby County youngster Malcolm Ebiowei.
The Red Devils are embarking on a fresh era, with new manager Erik ten Hag planning a big overhaul at Old Trafford. Whilst his immediate aim is to turn United back into a side capable of challenging for major honours, the Dutchman will also be aware of the long-term future and ensuring a strong batch of youngsters are brought to the club.
To that end, transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has suggested United are keen on Derby's Ebiowei, along with fellow top-flight side Crystal Palace. Aged 18, Ebiowei was formerly on the books of Arsenal and Rangers before moving to Pride Park last year. He only made his professional debut for the Rams in February, coming on as a late substitute in a Championship win over Hull City.
He earned his first start in March, in a 2-0 home win over Barnsley. In total, he featured 16 times and notched his first-ever senior goal in a 2-0 victory at Blackpool in the penultimate game of the season. The teenager, who operates either as a striker or winger, earned plenty of praise from his manager and United legend Wayne Rooney.
Speaking after a sparkling display by Ebiowei against Coventry last season, Rooney said: "I thought he was excellent all game, the best player on the pitch. It was one of the best performances I have seen from a young player, consistently for 90 minutes, in a long time.
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"He deserved that because he has worked extremely hard. His attitude is incredible, he wants to learn and he is an exciting young player. First of all, his attitude is very good. He has got an enormous amount of ability, he is brave, he will take the ball, he is not afraid to take players on, to get tackled, to make mistakes. He has got a really bright future."
Ebiowei is one of many Derby players whose deals expire shortly, and given the club's predicament it is far from certain whether they will even be able to offer a new deal. The club are still in administration and a potential takeover by American businessman Chris Kirchner looks dead in the water.
Ebiowei was blooded last season mostly out of necessity given Derby's struggles, but he impressed sufficiently and is tipped for big things. Speaking last month about his long-term future, Rooney said he hopes to be able to use Ebiowei next season.
"He wants to stay at this football club," said the former England skipper. "He wants to be here. I think what is important in order for him to develop as a player he is in the right hands, getting the right coaching. He wants to be here, he wants to learn and he wants to try and help this club move forward."
Ebiowei previously played for Netherlands Under-15 but has since switched allegiances to England's youth set-up.
