Manchester United's 'Wonderkid' Prospect Draws Interest From Chelsea, MLS

A Manchester United wonderkid prospect is currently drawing interest from Chelsea, several European clubs and even Major League Soccer.

Uruguayan wonderkid Facundo Pellistri has been generating quite a buzz ahead of the transfer window. Premier League giant Manchester United was the early frontrunner in signing Pellistri, as confirmed by his agent Nicolas Rotundo.

Speaking on the Uruguayan radio show “La Oral Mediodia” (via Manchester Evening News), Rotundo affirmed the interest and divulged that he has already talked to several clubs regarding the situation of Pellistri.

“Yes, there are many interested parties and we have spoken with several clubs,” Rotundo revealed.

The Uruguayan winger currently playing for boyhood club Peñarol has captured the attention of the biggest clubs across Europe’s top five leagues. Aside from United, the likes of Manchester City, Newcastle United and Real Madrid are all reportedly monitoring Pellistri.

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard, who has been evidently aggressive in recruiting young talents, is also linked to a possible move for Pellistri. According to The Sun, Chelsea has reportedly joined the transfer battle for the 18-year-old winger.

The report further stated that both Manchester clubs, Juventus, Atletico and Real Madrid have all been considering Pellistri. However, it has been said that Chelsea has emerged as dark horse to land the Peñarol star.

Pellistri appears to have also attracted clubs from North America as reports state that MLS is interested in exploring his situation.

Despite the strong interest from the top clubs in Europe, the South American club reportedly wouldn’t let Pellistri leave. It has been known that the attacking sensation currently has a £10 million ($12.6 million) release clause inserted into his contract.

Aside from the price tag attached to Pellistri’s contract, his agent, Rotundo, also hinted that at this point, his client prefers to take his talents to Spain and not in the Premier League or MLS.

“As a preference, the Spanish market would be ideal,” Rotundo said.

Pellistri quickly became a hot prospect in South America after starring in his homeland on the wing. If he could live up the hype, he could be Uruguay’s next biggest superstar.

The last Uruguayan player who was also once targeted by Europe’s biggest clubs is Barcelona star Luis Suarez. At the time, Liverpool was able to swing a deal to sign Suarez.

But just like Pellistri, Suarez dreamed of playing for Spain, especially Barcelona. Suarez ended up moving to Barca where he co-stars with Lionel Messi to this day.