Manchester United in race for 'defensive prodigy' as Chelsea's Kante call could end £100m dream

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United are reportedly leading the race among multiple Premier League clubs for a 'defensive prodigy'. Still, while one transfer looks promising, another more immediate signing could be under threat as Chelsea look to step up their interest.

Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid were reportedly interested in signing Diogo Dalot from United before the right back's resurgence into the first team.

United in the race for 'defensive prodigy'

According to a report by The Sun, United are leading the race for Blackburn Rovers' 16-year-old defender Ashley Phillips, but face competition from Chelsea, Everton and Tottenham Hotspur.

Rovers' boss Tony Mowbray has been full of praise for the young defender in the past, telling Lancs Live: He's 6ft 4in, he's fast, mobile and can pass it really well. He can use both feet, he's composed.

"Ash is just a phenomenal young boy; if you were to create a defender in the mould of how you would want one, this kid has got every attribute.

"But he is still just a young boy. He needs time, which is why he's training with the first team so that he gets confident and used to the level of intensity. He's an exciting prospect, is all I'd say. But it's in a position where there is a lot of responsibility."

Our view: It is not a signing for the immediate future, but United have shown more of a willingness over the past few years to sign academy players with high potential actively, and Phillips would be no exception.

Chelsea ready to 'get serious' in transfer battle

According to the Daily Mail, United's top summer target Rice would prefer a move to Chelsea in the