Chelsea Ahead Of Manchester United In Race For 15-Year-Old Wonderkid

Chelsea could beat its Premier League rivals Manchester United in the race to sign 15-year-old Ajax wonderkid Amourricho van Axel Dongen this summer, a report said.

After the completion of three major signings in the current transfer window, Hakim Ziyech, Timo Werner and Ben Chilwell, the Blues are once again linked to another interesting prospect, with Frank Lampard’s side keen on signing Van Axel Dongen from Ajax, The Telegraph reported.

The wonderkid is also a target of Man United, but Chelsea is now the frontrunner to get the teenage sensation's signature.

The Blues have already splurged nearly £130 million ($173 million) on their three major signings thus far in the current window. However, Chelsea wants to take another step in safeguarding its future and is now locked in on bringing Van Axel Dongen to its Academy.

The teenage winger, who plays as a forward for the Ajax Under-18 team, has also been the subject of scouting missions from both Manchester clubs, the report said.

Despite his young age, Van Axel Dongen has already been given opportunities in Ajax’s Under-18 side. He has showcased his leadership skills inside the pitch and was chosen to captain his regular Under-17’s outfit where he scored seven of his nine career goals.

Aside from Van Axel Dongen, another Ajax star is set to take his talents to the Premier League. United has already agreed personal terms with Donny Van de Beek and is expected to complete a deal for him in the next few days.

Prior to the agreement, the Red Devils chased Van de Beek for two seasons. Now, the Ajax midfielder has finally agreed to a five-year deal worth £40 million ($53 million).

Meanwhile, Chelsea is also bolstering up its defense, which caused the club a lot of trouble in the past season.

After goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, the club’s record-setting signing, failed to reach his best form last season, the Blues have started scouting for a credible replacement. The club has set its sights on Lille standout Mike Maignan, according to the latest reports.

Chelsea initially considered Atletico Madrid star Jan Oblak for the position, but due to his mega-expensive price tag, the Blues reportedly turned to Maignan as a cheaper alternative.