Bayer Leverkusen
Bayer Leverkusen
Manchester United’s focus this summer has been twofold: finalise key outgoings and secure young talent before rivals make their move.
Ruben Amorim has made no secret of his desire to build a long-term dynasty at Old Trafford, and part of that vision involves reshaping the club’s youth recruitment strategy.
While most headlines have been dominated by United’s pursuit of an elite striker and another midfielder, there’s been quiet movement behind the scenes as the club monitors high-potential teenagers across Europe.
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Club scouts have reportedly been active in France, Belgium and Germany in recent weeks, and sources close to Carrington say United are keen to beat Europe’s elite to the next wave of talent.
That strategy may now be tested sooner than expected as a highly rated teenager has just walked away from Paris Saint-Germain — for free.
Axel Tape, just 17 years old, has signed with Bundesliga giants Bayer Leverkusen following the expiry of his contract with PSG.
The deal, confirmed by Leverkusen on their website, marks a major loss for the Parisians, who failed to agree fresh terms with the versatile French youth international.
According to a report from Foot Mercato, Axel Tape was keen to establish himself as a centre-back, but PSG insisted on playing him further up the pitch in midfield.
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The disagreement over his natural role reportedly became a central issue in the failed negotiations.
Additionally, the teenager saw his path blocked at PSG, where competition for places continues to be fierce.
Tape made his senior debut this past season, featuring three times — most notably in the Coupe de France win over FC Espaly and in Ligue 1 clashes with Strasbourg and Montpellier.
Despite breaking into the first team, he believed that opportunities would remain limited, and opted for a fresh start elsewhere.
While Bayer Leverkusen may have secured Tape’s signature, United scouts were reportedly aware of the situation months ago and have continued to build dossiers on similar talents across France.
It’s another stark reminder that the race for Europe’s brightest young players is accelerating — and that missing out, even silently, can hurt a club’s long-term plans.