Manchester United will reportedly compete with Real Madrid for 21-year-old Sevilla prospect Juanlu Sanchez next year.
According to a report by AS, as relayed by Sport Witness, Juanlu Sanchez is the subject of interest from Manchester United. In addition, reigning La Liga champions Real Madrid are keen on signing the Sevilla prospect next year. The 2024 Olympic gold medalist has a release clause worth €20 million in his contract with the Andalusian outfit.
Juanlu Sanchez and his progress at Sevilla
Juanlu Sanchez has been a rare bright spot for Sevilla in the last 12 months, with the Andalusian outfit struggling for relevance in La Liga. A native of Montequinto, the Spaniard spent his formative years in his homeland and has been with Sevilla since arriving from Altair in 2017.
The 21-year-old progressed through the ranks at Sevilla before breaking into the first-team squad in December 2021. Since then, the youngster has come leaps and bounds, establishing himself as one of the best young prospects in La Liga. He has turned out nearly 50 times thus far for Los Nervionenses while chipping in with two goals and three assists.
The Spanish utility man was also a part of his nation’s squad at the 2024 Paris Olympics, with Spain winning the gold medal after beating France in the final. Meanwhile, Juanlu’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs across Europe, including Manchester United and Real Madrid.
A man in demand
Manchester United’s interest in Juanlu Sanchez is understandable. While the Red Devils do not need a right-back after signing Noussair Mazraoui in the summer transfer window, the Sevilla prospect can be a long-term right-wing solution for them. In addition, the Spaniard can play as a holding midfielder, with Garcia Pimienta deploying him in that position this term.
As for Real Madrid, they can use the Spanish utility man as a right-back and groom him as a long-term successor to Dani Carvajal. The 21-year-old prefers to play as a right-back or a winger instead of the holding midfield position. Meanwhile, he will not cost a bomb, with his Sevilla deal including a release clause worth €20 million.
So, it will not be surprising to see Manchester United and Real Madrid coughing up €20 million to secure Juanlu’s services next year. It will be interesting to see where the Olympics 2024 gold medalist lands if he leaves Sevilla.
