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Leicester City are reportedly leading a fierce transfer race to sign Jack Fletcher after he stole a march on their rivals for the Manchester United star.
Rising through the ranks
Fletcher is highly regarded at the academy and the 18-year-old made his debut for the Red Devils in December.
Ruben Amorim, who was sacked as head coach by INEOS earlier this month, handed the youngster his first appearance before Christmas in the 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa.
Sports tree reveals Fletcher – son of former Scotland international and under-18s coach Darren, who took over the first team in Amorim’s absence – is one of the “best prospects” to emerge from the youth set-up in recent years.
The midfielder has excelled for the academy players with his “calmness and decisiveness in high-pressure situations” and there is a feeling he is ready to get a taste of senior football on a regular basis.
“Technically gifted, calm in possession and tactically mature beyond his years, Fletcher has long been identified internally as a player capable of making the step to senior football sooner or later.” Sports tree states.
The report claims that United’s hierarchy see a loan move as the “logical next step” as the squad is available for Michael Carrick, who took over from Fletcher Snr. as caretaker manager until the end of the season, has been strengthened by the return of senior stars from injuries and international duties.
This will reduce the chances for young Fletcher, with a move to a Championship side considered the best option to continue his development. However, there is also “at least one Premier League team that is lower in the rankings [who have] preliminary interest has also been registered.”
Ready for senior football
A host of clubs in England’s second division are “firmly in contention”, with these teams “aware that Fletcher’s pedigree and international youth achievements mark him as a potential future star.”
But it is Leicester who are “leading the race” to seal a deal with the Red Devils, despite Midlands sacking Martí Cifuentes as manager earlier this month.
“The Foxes have positioned themselves at the front of the queue despite not currently having a permanent manager, having held encouraging talks with United over a temporary move aimed at giving the youngster regular first-team exposure.
“The former Premier League champion’s reputation for developing young talent and offering meaningful minutes has reportedly made a strong impression on all parties involved.”
Leicester are believed to be focusing on ‘creativity and energy in midfield’ as the January transfer window draws to a close and Monday’s 7pm deadline fast approaches. They are considered ‘pole position’ to seal a deal for the United star, who has outgrown youth football.
Featured image Ben Roberts photo via Getty Images
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