Man Utd in 'concrete negotiations' to sign highly-rated 16-year-old Swedish striker

Manchester United have opened negotiations to sign 16-year-old Swedish striker Kevin Filling from AIK Fotboll, according to multiple reports from Sweden and Germany.

Respected journalist Florian Plettenberg claims the Premier League club are in “concrete negotiations” over a January transfer, with a potential fee of around €3 million (£2.6 million) being discussed.

Filling, regarded as one of Scandinavia’s brightest young prospects, could become one of United’s first youth-focused signings under the club’s revamped recruitment structure.

The teenage forward has already made his senior debut in the Swedish top flight — a rare milestone for a player born in November 2008, reports Sportbladet.

Standing at approximately 6ft 1in, Filling has impressed scouts with his movement, composure in front of goal, and maturity beyond his years. He has also represented Sweden at youth international level.

Sources close to AIK suggest Manchester United have been tracking Filling for several months.

His performances for the Stockholm-based club have drawn attention from other European sides, including Borussia Dortmund and several Bundesliga outfits, but United are believed to be leading the race for his signature.

Should a deal be completed, Filling would likely join United’s academy setup initially, with a pathway toward first-team involvement in the coming seasons.

The move reflects a clear shift in strategy under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and manager Rúben Amorim, both of whom have publicly emphasised long-term development and squad sustainability over short-term signings.

In a recent interview with Swedish outlet Aftonbladet, Filling remained grounded amid the speculation, saying: “I focus on what I can control — training, learning, and improving every day. The rest will take care of itself.”

United have not yet commented publicly on the negotiations, but the club’s recruitment team is understood to view Filling as a player with significant long-term potential.

If the move goes ahead, Kevin Filling could follow in the footsteps of fellow Scandinavian prospects who have used Manchester United as a platform to reach the top level — a story the club will hope to see unfold again at Old Trafford.