Man United face competition for Sporting Lisbon wonder-kid defender, Euro giants enter talks with agent

Sporting Lisbon wonder-kid Merih Demiral continues to attract attention from across Europe.

Turkish-Football recently reported that Manchester United have been scouting the 19-year-old.

Turkish sports newspaper Fanatik reported today that United have been joined by Besiktas and Galatasaray in keeping tabs on the youngster.

Per the source, Galatasaray have made an enquiry regarding his availability and held initial talks with Demerol’s agent.

Besiktas are also in the race to sign the youngster but have yet to enter talks.

Sporting are in no hurry to sell Demiral and coach Tiago Fernandes feels the youngster has the potential to become a star.

See More: For everyone you want to know about Merih Demiral news

Fernandes was quoted by O Jogo as saying: “Merih is fast, has great concentration, is competitive, agressive and a drive to win. In short he is a fantastic player. He is already a leader in the defence and will be worth millions.”

Besiktas and Galatasaray may struggle to send Demiral as he has his mind set on staying in Europe and joining one of the continents strongest leagues.

“Fenerbahce play old Turks and sign foreign players, there is no place for young players I would have just rotted on the bench,” Demiral stated.

“I know it came as a surprise leaving for Alcanenense but I wanted to develop and felt the best place to progress and play regularly would be abroad. 

“Now I’m at Sporting Lisbon, one of the best places for a young player to be.”

Who is Merih Demiral?

Demiral was a Fenerbahce academy player before joining Alcanenense and represents Turkey at youth international level.

The 1.92m tall defender attracted widespread interest from rival Portuguese sides before joining Sporting Lisbon.

The powerful centre-back is a regular call up for the Turkish under-21 national team.