Norway under-21 international Eivind Helland
Norway under-21 international Eivind Helland
As Manchester United's pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo, as well as their search for a new forward, dominate their transfer agenda, they are trying to complete some astute business under the radar.
Ineos have made a conscious effort to identify some of the best young talent in world football and sign them early for a low fee. The idea being that they either develop into first team regulars at or they are able to sell those players on for a profit down the line.
The signings of Paraguayan left-back Diego Leon and French forward Enzo Kaya-Biyik certainly fit that mould and another similar deal could be in the works.
United sent scouts to watch Norwegian centre-half Eivind Helland play in SK Brann's 3-1 win over Viking on Sunday in the Norwegian Eliteserien. Helland played well in the win and the 20-year-old already has vast experience at senior level.
Certainly, Brann manager Freyr Alexandersson is a huge fan of the Norway under-21 international. The Icelandic boss, who has worked at clubs in his homeland, as well as Qatar, Denmark and Belgium, described Helland as the 'greatest talent' he has worked with.
He also believes he has the capabilities to move from a centre-half into a central midfield role and has boldly suggested he has similar qualities to Ballon d'Or winner
"[He is] A modern centre-back. But he is still inexperienced. And he will make mistakes," Alexandersson told
"We should just accept that. But try to protect him as best as possible and prepare him as best as possible, so that he can flourish. Because he has speed, he has technical skills.
"He is quick on his feet, he is big and strong. He is humble and works hard. So he is going to have a very big career, I think.
"I think I can say that he is the greatest talent I have ever had. That is my feeling, without wanting to put too much pressure on him. I will protect him as much as I need to, but he is a very big talent and I think he knows that himself.
"Centre-back is his best position, but for a dominant team like Brann will be, he can develop into a really good six. Without wanting to make headlines about it, he reminds me a bit of Rodri.
"If you see how Rodri developed as a 'six', Eivind Helland has many of the same qualities. It may be that at some point I will give him a few games as a six."
A deal for Helland shouldn't be too expensive to make and the upside is massive. If he lives up to his billing from his manager, it could be one of United's smartest ever investments.
It is certainly a situation to watch this summer.