According to La Provence, Manchester United have joined FC Barcelona in the pursuit of Isaac Lihadji. The Marseille winger is regarded as one of the biggest talents in France and has attracted the interest of a host of clubs across Europe, including Barcelona and Everton. Lihadji’s current contract at the club expires at the end of next season, and a move away from Marseille could be on the cards.
Lihadji’s emergence in French youth football
Lihadji predominantly plays for the Marseille youth setup but has also featured for the French U17 side. He was initially a part of the French U16 side in 2017 but made his debut for the U17s at the end of last year. He has since featured in four games for the corresponding youth team.
For Marseille, he is yet to be handed his professional contract despite showing immense promise in the youth leagues. He did, however, feature for 45 minutes during the club’s friendly with DC United last week. But, it is believed that the youngster wants assurances over his role for Andres Villas-Boas’ side in this upcoming season.
What can he offer to the table?
A right-winger by trade, Lihadji is a dynamic attacker, who loves to take on defenders. He has excellent control over the ball and is adept in drifting past defenders with the ball even at full speed. This is mainly due to his remarkable balance, which, in turn, is generated due to his small circumference. He stands at a relatively short 1.77m.
The 17-year-old is also capable of creating scoring opportunities for his team. He can thread useful through balls in behind the defence while his brilliant vision allows him to find teammates in and around the final third. Additionally, the Frenchman is quite challenging in physical duels as well, helping him keep hold of the ball.
Is Lihadji a viable option for Manchester United?
Lihadji could work as an understudy for new signing Daniel James. He is unlikely to be drafted into the first-team, given his lack of experience in senior football. But, the fact that he is one of France’s most gifted attackers could make him a star addition to the youth academy that is set to receive recognition from new manager Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer.
Besides, Marseille will likely to include a hefty release clause if they manage to tie Lihadji to a long-term contract. This is the time for United to strike if they are keen on securing the services of the youngster.
