Chelsea and Manchester United have both endured upsets in recent years, compared to their more successful past. Both will be eager to qualify for Champions League football while keeping one eye on the best talent available. One player who has attracted interest from Chelsea and Man Utd is Croatian defensive prodigy Leon Jakirovic. According to Graeme Bailey of TEAMtalk, Jakirovic has decided to shun Premier League interest and commit his future to Inter Milan.
Man Utd and Chelsea Aggressively Target Leon Jakirovic
Leon Jakirovic Picks Inter Milan
Leon Jakirovic has been on the radar of many clubs since his impressive performances in the recent Under‑17 World Cup for Croatia.
The son of Hull City boss Sergej Jakirovic shows key characteristics that teams crave in their defenders. During the Under-17 World Cup, he showed composure and leadership at the heart of the defence, resulting in scouts flocking to Dinamo Zagreb to see Jakirovic.
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He has shown himself to be an accurate tackler who excels at reading the game, often timing interceptions and tackles to perfection. He is more than comfortable in possession and shows good vision when picking his passes. Ivan Mijac, one of his early coaches, commented on the versatility of Jakirovic: “He has the characteristics for full-back, centre-back and defensive midfielder positions,” said Mijac. “It won’t be a surprise if he eventually develops in any of those.”
Jakirovic Shuns Premier League Move
Bailey’s report confirms Jakirovic has opted for Italy despite the aggressive interest from Man Utd. Many clubs were interested in the talented defender, including the Premier League big hitters, but Jakirovic has ultimately decided against moving to England.
Read More: Manchester United Face Competition for ‘Pitbull’ Midfielder
The groundwork laid by Inter Milan has proven to be the key factor in signing the teenager, as they presented the project to him, including his pathway to first-team football. The deal is expected to be finalised in the coming days, with the highly rated youngster set to take the next step in his career.
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IMAGO / Sportimage