Thiago Almada, a target for Manchester United, has already earned the endorsement of Lionel Messi.
Journalist Bruno González Garca claims that Manchester City and United have both contacted Atlanta United of Major League Soccer to inquire about signing Argentine attacking midfielder Almada.
Since moving to Atlanta for $16 million (£12 million) from Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield in February of last year, the Argentine-born standout has emerged as one of the MLS’ most impressive players.
The World Cup winner has scored eight goals and collected a league-high nine assists so far this season.
And Almada, who is valued by Transfermarkt at £17million has also impressed for Argentina since making his debut last September.
The youngster has even received praise from seven-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi for his work with the national team.
Messi was impressed with Almada when the Atlanta midfielder made his Argentina debut in a 3-0 win over Honduras in Miami, Florida.
Almada made a 36-minute cameo after he came off the bench to replace Sevilla midfielder Papu Gomez in the 54th minute.
And in a post-match interview, via the Mail Online, Messi said: “Thiago plays loose.
He’s very fast and he has a lot of 1-v-1 ability. He’s very clever and he’s not afraid of anything. He goes at you.”
