Manchester United are reported to be watching Major League Soccer sensation Brian Gutierrez.
The Mail report Manchester United lead a number of clubs eyeing the Chicago Fire winger, who has broken into the team in 2023.
Gutierrez, 19, is eligible to play international football for both USA and Mexico, although is leaning towards the Stars and Stripes, representing the US at under-20 level.
The teenager plays on the left wing and has provided four assists at first team level in 17 games.
READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfers in, out, loans, releases, youth for 2023/24
Brian Gutierrez an interesting option
While Brian Gutierrez has a long term contract until 2026, he would be a cheap option for Manchester United.
A report in The Telegraph over the weekend claimed United could try to sign a left winger, despite already having options at the position.
Gutierrez likely would not qualify for a work permit at present, so United would have to loan him out, or back directly to Chicago Fire.
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He plays in the same side currently as Xherdan Shaqiri, an old foe of United with Basel, Bayern and Liverpool.
His current manager is a big fan. Frank Klopas told Goal recently: “[Gutierrez] right now is at a different level and he can continue, he’s going to continue to grow and take more responsibility upon himself. But today, he was incredible.
“Good with the ball, his work rate, key passes, ability to beat players, technical ability – he’s got everything in my mind. And you can just see year by year, I’ve seen him grow and mature even when he was on Fire Academy. He’s really playing like a man now.”
The MLS market is not one Manchester United have explored – but the time is right to now do so if an interesting player comes along.
United are heading to the States for pre-season, set to play Borussia Dortmund, Arsenal, Wrexham, and Real Madrid.
The club could generate extra buzz by swooping for US talent Gutierrez, even if just to parade him, if work permit issues do not permit him to play just yet.