Ecuador talent Ederson Castillo has been linked with a move to Manchester United but Michael Carrick's team face the prospect of missing out on the midfielder this month
Manchester United Technical Director Jason Wilcox (left) and CEO Omar Berrada
Manchester United are not expected to be busy in the January transfer window(Image: PA)
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Manchester United are one of the clubs interested in South America's highly-regarded teenager Ederson Castillo, but Barcelona have reportedly taken the first step in signing him.
Castillo, 17, currently plays in his home country of Ecuador and has attracted plenty of suitors from Europe's top clubs. A report earlier this week suggested that United were the 'most interested' club in signing the youngster.
BOLAVIP claimed that United were considering making a move this month or in the summer. The teenager has been dubbed the 'next Moises Caicedo' and is expected to be available for around £4million.
However, United face missing out with Barcelona moving into pole position. According to a report from Diario Sport, the La Liga giants have brought Castillo to the club on a trial basis with a view to signing for the club.
Real Madrid are also keen on signing the young talent, despite him playing just six first-team games. Castillo is the latest wonderkid to be linked with a move to United after a shift in their recruitment.
Chido Obi, Diego Leon, Ayden Heaven and Sekou Kone have all arrived as teenagers and impressed. Patrick Dorgu and Leny Yoro have also arrived to become first-team regulars.
Ederson Castillo smiles
Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a move for Ederson Castillo(Image: LDU Youth Academy)
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This month, United are only expected to improve their squad if the right becomes available for the right price. A new midfielder is the priority, with Ruben Neves one of the players linked with a switch.
The Al-Hilal midfielder is reportedly available for around £15m after turning down a contract extension. United are free to seal a pre-contract agreement with the midfielder for next summer.
But the Manchester Evening News understands United are unlikely to make any signings in January, preferring to plan longer-term. Despite winning just once in their last seven games across all competitions, new interim head coach Michael Carrick will have to work with the squad currently at Carrington.
Long-term targets are anticipated to be pursued in the summer. Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson and Brighton's Carlos Baleba are all on their radar but aren't expected to be available in January.