Manchester United are hoping to pip Reading to the signing of teenage goalkeeper Edward Onaiwu.
The 15-year-old Anglo-Nigerian youngster has been on a short trial with the Championship side, but United’s head of academy recruitment Tom Critchley was in the crowd for the Royals youth team’s recent game against Fulham to keep tabs on Onaiwu.
He was previously on the books of Crystal Palace, who could be entitled to compensation from whichever team he joins next.
Although born in England, Onaiwu is already playing for Nigeria’s youth teams following extensive scouting of UK players of Nigerian heritage by the African nation’s FA.
African football website Soccer Laduma claims that Critchley spoke to the youngster after the game against Fulham was apparent full of praise for his performance.
The offer of a trial at United’s academy is likely to follow, the report suggests.
Liverpool and Newcastle United are among other sides said to be monitoring Onaiwu’s situation.
