Man Utd eye South American wonderkid and Sunderland midfielder in major rebuild

News
by Chris Hetherington
Monday, 24 March 2025 at 11:12
amorim2
Manchester United’s recruitment team are casting a wide net ahead of the summer transfer window, with Colombian wonderkid Neyser Villarreal and Sunderland starlet Chris Rigg emerging as key targets.
They are alongside a six-man striker shortlist featuring some of Europe’s top forwards. Ruben Amorim’s side, still adjusting to his tactical overhaul, are in dire need of attacking reinforcements.
United have reportedly been left very impressed by 18-year-old Neyser Villarreal, a versatile attacking midfielder currently dazzling for Colombian side Independiente Medellín.

Read also

Man Utd told striker transfer target is 'from other world' with 66 goals in 68 gamesMan Utd told striker transfer target is 'from other world' with 66 goals in 68 games
Dubbed “the next James Rodríguez” by local scouts, Villarreal has notched 6 goals and 8 assists in the 2024 Categoría Primera A season. His pace, vision, and two-footedness have caught the eye during international youth tournaments, and United scouts were present at his recent U-20 Colombia call-up.
A move could be secured for around £12m, though Arsenal and Tottenham are also monitoring the teenager.
Closer to home, 17-year-old Chris Rigg remains a priority for United’s youth revolution. The Sunderland midfielder, who became the club’s youngest-ever goalscorer in 2023, has been a standout in the Championship this season with 4 goals and 3 assists.

Read also

Controversial deals and Fergie's role in the takeover of the Glazers at Man UtdControversial deals and Fergie's role in the takeover of the Glazers at Man Utd
His tenacity, work rate, and ability to dictate play from deep align perfectly with Amorim’s high-pressing 3-4-2-1 system. United face competition from Newcastle and Chelsea, but a £20m bid could tempt Sunderland, especially with Rigg’s contract entering its final year in 2026.
With Rasmus Højlund’s goal drought and Joshua Zirkzee’s struggles, United are compiling a shortlist of six strikers to lead their attack. Insiders confirm the following names are under consideration:
  1. Victor Osimhen (Napoli) – The Nigerian hitman, currently on loan at Galatasaray, tops the list. His 26 goals in the 2022/23 Serie A title-winning season make him a £70m dream signing, though a swap involving Højlund has been mooted.
  2. Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting CP) – Amorim’s former protégé has bagged 23 goals this term. A £63m release clause exists, but Sporting may settle for less given United’s leverage with their manager.
  3. Jonathan David (Lille) – The Canadian’s 19 goals in Ligue 1 last season and contract expiring in 2025 make him a £30m bargain option. Gary Neville recently quizzed him on a United move, to which David coyly replied, “We’ll see.”
  4. Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig) – The 21-year-old Slovenian, previously linked with United, offers height and pace. Leipzig’s £50m valuation could rise if he sustains his current form.
  5. Hugo Ekitike (Eintracht Frankfurt) – A £40m target Ashworth chased at Newcastle, the French striker’s 11 goals this season have reignited United’s interest.
  6. Liam Delap (Ipswich Town) – The 22-year-old Englishman, on loan from Manchester City, has impressed with 8 Premier League goals. A £25m permanent move could be in play.
United’s transfer strategy reflects Amorim’s dual focus: immediate impact and long-term potential. Villarreal and Rigg signal a commitment to youth, while the striker shortlist addresses the urgent need for goals.
With PSR constraints looming, player sales—like Højlund or Zirkzee—may fund these moves. As one source put it, “United are building for now and the future—it’s a bold plan, but it has to work.”