United prepare stunning raid for record-breaking German sensation to solve team’s biggest issue – report

Manchester United are ready to go to war with Europe’s elite to secure the signature of Hertha Berlin wonderkid Kennet Eichhorn, according to the latest report from Germany.

The next Toni Kroos

Despite being just 16 years old, Eichhorn has already established himself at the heart of Hertha’s midfield with a series of mature performances that belie his age. Described as an “all-action midfielder”, the German under-17 international has drawn comparisons to Toni Kroos such is the ease with which he can dictate play from the middle of the pitch.

Eichhorn became the youngest player to start a match in Bundesliga 2 history in the 3-0 win over Hannover 96 in September. In a post-match interview, Hertha manager Stefan Leitl described the youngster as “by far the best player on the pitch”.

However, this meteoric rise has not gone unnoticed – both inside and outside of Germany. Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen and Eintracht Frankfurt are all keeping close tabs on Eichhorn, while Spanish giants FC Barcelona and Real Madrid are also hot on his tail, according to Bild (as relayed by Sports Witness).

But the Red Devils are also said to have “expressed interest” – with a view towards “lining up” a swoop this summer – as INEOS continue to hunt for the best young talent from across the globe.

Big-money for big potential

Eichhorn’s contract at the Olympiastadion contains a release clause worth €10-12 million (£8.75-10.5m). This is a considerable price for a 16-year-old – but the Hertha starlet is no ordinary youngster.

In addition to his maturity on and off the pitch, the German already stands 6’1″ and has shown an ability – and, more importantly, an appetite – to compete physically. There is a growing sense of urgency amongst the continent’s biggest clubs to strike a deal now which will prove a bargain in the long run.

Madrid are understood to be “particularly keen” on Eichhorn as their scouts believe he has the potential to be a successor to Kroos at the Santiago Bernabeu. However, United are also in the hunt for reinforcements in midfield as the Mancunian club look to overhaul the weakest area of their squad.

At least two new options are expected to arrive at Old Trafford this summer, with Casemiro‘s contract set to expire at the end of the season and the future of Manuel Ugarte far from certain. If the 24-year-old Uruguayan was to join his Brazilian teammate through the exit door, the Red Devils would need to sign a third midfielder.

In this scenario, big-money moves for two established stars – say Elliot Anderson and Sandro Tonali, for example – could be balanced by a raid for an outstanding young prospect like Eichhorn, who has already demonstrated an ability to compete in senior football.

Final Thoughts – A Big Decision Looms

Eichhorn is currently out injured with a serious ankle injury, sustained in a draw with Schalke 04 last month. There is an outside chance he may miss the remainder of the campaign.

This would mean the youngster has already played his last game for his boyhood club, with a summer exit “widely expected.” He is currently recovering and planning his next move with his family.

United will have to present a more attractive vision for his future at Old Trafford than any offer at the Bernabeu, Camp Nou or Allianz Arena if they are to win the red-hot race for Germany’s next superstar.

Featured image Christian Kaspar-Bartke via Getty Images

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