According to The Sun, Manchester United are ready to challenge arch-rivals Manchester City in the race to sign Hoffenheim wonderkid Ilay Elmkies. The young midfielder is regarded as one of the most talented up and coming footballers in Germany’s youth leagues, with both the Manchester clubs vying for his signature. It is believed that Elmkies could cost just £2.5 million, with his current contract at Hoffenheim soon running out.
Ilay Elmkies’ success in the youth leagues
A product of the Sinsheim youth academy, Elmkies moved to Hoffenheim youth in 2015. And he immediately impressed the onlookers with his consistent performances, which resulted in his rapid promotion to the Hoffenheim U-19 squad at the age of just 17.
Elmkies notably starred for Hoffenheim in the UEFA Youth League last term while being involved in five goals in 15 matches in the U-19 Bundesliga Sud/Sudwest, helping his side finish fifth in the table – just behind fourth-placed Bayern Munich U-19s.
The 19-year-old has also represented the Israeli youth team, having already featured in nine games for the Under-19 squad. And as a result of his impressive performances, Elmkies is set to be promoted to the Hoffenheim reserve side at the start of next season.
What can Elmkies bring to the table?
Elmkies is a central midfielder by trade, who has been likened to Bayern Munich superstar Thiago Alcantara. Much like the Spaniard, the youngster is a proficient passer and is an excellent ball-carrier. He is also a physically astute midfielder and that allows him to keep hold of the ball even under strong pressure.
He may not be the tallest of midfielders, standing at just 1.72 metres. But, what Elmkies lacks in height, he more than makes up for it with his smart movements and excellent passing. He is a strong tackler as well – making him a well rounded central midfielder.
Should Manchester United make a move for this youngster?
Manchester United are scouring the market for young talented individuals, who can potentially become an asset to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s setup in the near future. They have already signed Daniel James and are on the verge of securing the services of Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Elmkies, in that regard, could be a welcome addition to the squad, although it’s unlikely he will be drafted into the first-team right away given his lack of experience in top-flight football. But, the Israeli wonderkid is undoubtedly brimming with potential, and if nurtured well, he could become an asset for the Red Devils in midfield.
