Barcelona midfielder on Manchester United radar after Spain heroics

Manchester United’s midfield department is expected to undergo further changes in the coming months.

While the club are currently focused on strengthening Michael Carrick’s first-team squad, long-term planning is just as important.

Ederson’s move from Atalanta is expected to be announced soon after United reached agreements with both the Italian club and the player.

The Red Devils have been linked with a number of midfield options as recruitment staff continue to assess talent across Europe.

There is also an awareness that the current options will not remain at Old Trafford forever.

During the season, Casemiro confirmed that he will leave the club when his contract expires later this month.

Now, a fresh report from Diario AS has suggested United scouts are keeping a close eye on one of the continent’s most exciting emerging midfield talents.

Manchester United scouts watch Barcelona prospect

According to AS, United were among several clubs with representatives in Estonia during the UEFA Under-17 European Championship.

The report claims scouts from Manchester United, Manchester City and Juventus have all been monitoring a highly-rated Barcelona prospect.

It’s safe to say he has been one of the standout performers at the tournament.

That player is Ebrima Tunkara.

The 16-year-old midfielder has enjoyed a remarkable campaign for Spain’s Under-17 side.

He has already established himself as one of La Masia’s brightest prospects.

Tunkara has registered one goal and four assists in his first three matches of the tournament.

He has contributed either a goal or an assist in every game so far.

Ebrima Tunkara produced a goal and assist against Estonia before following that up with impressive displays against Belgium and Croatia.

The youngster has also started every match for Spain at the tournament so far, highlighting the trust placed on him by the coaching staff.

Barcelona have a plan

Primarily an attacking midfielder, Tunkara’s vision, dribbling ability and creativity have attracted attention from across Europe.

AS reports that the Spanish giants have already offered him a professional contract earlier this year.

They have accelerated his development pathway.

Despite still being only 16, he has already featured for Barcelona Atletic and training with Hansi Flick’s first team.

For now, Barcelona appear determined to keep a hold of their latest wonderkid.

However, Manchester United remains among the clubs monitoring his progress closely following his Spain heroics.