19-year-old Man United defensive target stars in victory over Portugal U19s

Man United defensive target Merih Demiral starred in the Turkey U19s 2-1 victory over Portugal U19s in the UEFA U19 Championship – Elite Round.

Turkish-Football reported that United have been scouting the 19-year-old and that they were joined by reigning Super Lig champions Besiktas in monitoring the young defender against Portugal U19s.

See More: For Besiktas news and everything you want to know about the club

Turkey, Portugal, Croatia and Poland are now all on three points after two games in Group 4.

The Crescent-Stars are 3rd in the group on goal difference and will take on Croatia next on 28 March 2017.

Demiral is expected to keep his position in the starting lineup against Croatia tomorrow.

Who is Merih Demiral?

Demiral rose through the Fenerbahce academy before making a bold move to Portugal, joining Alcanenense.

The 19-year-old could have stayed in Turkey where he would have been offered a lucrative contract and widespread media attention but he chose to leave the Super Lig for Portugal to develop his talent.

Sporting Lisbon recently snapped up the 1.92m tall centre-back on a five-year deal.

Demiral has established himself as a regular call up to the Turkish U19 side and is being considered for promotion to the senior team along with Berkay Ozcan who is being scouted by Arsenal and Besiktas.