Man Utd plot transfer move for wonderkid tracked by Chelsea and Newcastle

The race for Derby starlet Cruz Allen is hotting up, with Manchester United joining the race for the teenage talent.

Allen, a Wales under-17 international, caught the eye at the tail end of last season when he scored his first goals in the Under-18 Premier League. The 16-year-old made his Premier League 2 debut this season, and also represented the Rams' senior side for the first time when they beat Wolves' Under-21 side in the EFL Trophy.

Chelsea and Newcastle had already reportedly been keeping tabs on the youngster. Now, though, they could face fierce opposition in the form of United.

According to The Sun, Derby are braced for bids for Allen. He is under contract until 2025, but is likely to have plenty of suitors after his impressive form at age group level.

If United are to pounce for the Welsh talent, it would not be the first time they've looked towards the EFL for young recruits. Their last link to a Derby wonderkid fell flat, though, with winger Malcolm Ebiowei ending up at Crystal Palace.

Joe Hugill, who made a Premier League matchday squad for the first time on Sunday as United travelled to Everton, was signed from Sunderland's academy in a six-figure deal in 2020. They have also signed players from other Premier League academies, though, most recently picking up twins Tyler and Jack Fletcher from Manchester City.

Manchester United's Under-18s squad sit top of the league table this season after winning each of their first eight games. They have also been making progress in the Premier League Cup, with hotshot Ethan Wheatley scoring four times in a 5-1 victory over Southampton.

They could yet get a closer look at Allen before the January transfer window opens. Derby are due to play Bolton Wanderers in the FA Youth Cup