Manchester United set to battle Chelsea for another Arsenal wonderkid after Chido-Obi Martin swoop: Reports
Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly in the fray for Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman. The 14-year-old has earned England caps at the Under-17 level and is one of the most excited youngsters in European football at the moment.
However, Dowman could soon join Hubert Graczyk and Premier League Under-18 Golden Boot winner Chido Obi-Martin, who joined United, out of the club. As per TBR, Dowman has been the subject of interest from United, Arsenal as well as Barcelona, with Chelsea and Liverpool also in the fray. Barca tried to snap him up this summer, but the youngster stayed put at the Emirates.
While a move to Spain appears unlikely for now due to new FIFA rules - unless Dowman's parents also relocate to the country - the Gunners are confident that the player will remain at the club despite interest from the other English clubs.
The 14-year-old is already a regular for the Gunners' Under-18 side, registering eight goal contributions in 10 games across competitions. Youth team boss Jack Wilshere has high expectations from Dowman:
“He can be more consistent, but he’s only 14 and hasn’t even started his GCSEs yet. We need to find a balance of letting him play and enjoy because of his age but also trying to get as much work into him as we can.
"Hopefully, we can fast-track him. And, when he goes over to the first-team, he’ll be more ready."
Bowman sizzled in a recent 5-2 win over Fulham, providing four assists, with Wilshere admitting that he 'enjoyed' the teenager's performance.
What's next for Arsenal and Manchester United?
Manchester United and Arsenal have had contrasting starts to the campaign. While Erik ten Hag's United are languishing in 13th place in the Premier League, the Gunners are third, one point off leaders Liverpool.
The Red Devils are coming off a 3-0 humbling at home to Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend. Ten Hag's side next take on FC Porto in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday (October 3), having drawn 1-1 at home to FC Twente in their opener.
Meanwhile, the Gunners are coming off a thrilling 4-2 home win over reigning Championship winners Leicester City, scoring twice in stoppage time after squandering a two-goal lead.
Mikel Arteta's side next host PSG in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday (October 1), having drawn goalless at reigning UEFA Europa League winners Atalanta in their first game.