“What a player!”: Dortmund eyeing yet another EFL wonderkid, but United ready to fight tooth and nail to win the race – report

Manchester United are on the lookout for defensive reinforcements, with a lot of churn taking place in the summer, while even more is expected next year.

Victor Lindelof left on a free at the end of his contract and has since joined Aston Villa, while Jonny Evans retired in the summer.

Harry Maguire has been linked with an exit next year, while Lionel Messi is reportedly pushing Barcelona to pursue Lisandro Martinez, who is currently sidelined due to an injury.

And INEOS have plans to strengthen in that area, but it might not necessarily be a big-name acquisition, with the co-owners always on the lookout for a diamond in the rough.

Dylan Lawlor on United’s radar

That approach has paid off pretty well so far, and now, as per EFL Analysis, the Red Devils have their eyes on Cardiff wonderkid Dylan Lawlor.

Despite being only 19, he is already a full Welsh international, while also being a regular for the Bluebirds this season.

Wales boss Craig Bellamy was effusive in his praise of the Cardiff wonderkid. “Beyond impressed. What a player,” he was quoted as saying.

And his performances have attracted the interest of plenty of English top-flight sides as well as the likes of Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig.

Dortmund are known for plucking superstars-in-the-making from the lower tiers, and they could be about to do the same. But United are ready to fight tooth and nail to win the race.

In-demand wonderkid

“Cardiff youngster Dylan Lawlor is being watched closely by several Premier League clubs as well as German giants Borussia Dortmund.

“EFL Analysis understands that a host of Premier League clubs are closely monitoring Cardiff starlet Lawlor.

“We can reveal that Manchester United, Chelsea, Tottenham and Newcastle United have all watched him this season, whilst we can also reveal RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund have also been alerted to his progress.”

The centre-back signed a new three-year contract recently to deter suitors, but it does not seem to have worked. While Cardiff will try and hold on, they might have to let go if they receive a big enough bid.

Now it remains to be seen which club approaches them first. Hopefully, it is the 20-time English league champions.

Feature image Francois Nel via Getty Images

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