Latest Manchester United transfer news with an update on talented teenager Assane Diao
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Manchester United have scouted Como winger Assane Diao
Manchester United have scouted Como winger Assane Diao
(Image: Getty Images)
A Manchester United scout was in attendance at the Serie A game between Empoli and Como on Saturday to monitor winger Assane Diao, it has been claimed.
The 19-year-old has impressed since joining Como from Real Betis for £10.6million in January, scoring five times in 12 appearances. He has found the back of the net against AC Milan, Udinese, Juventus, Fiorentina and Napoli.
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According to journalist Nicolo Schira, United sent a scout to watch the player in action this weekend as Como hosted Empoli at the Stadio Sinigaglia. While Diao, who started on the left-hand side, didn't score or assist, he put in a solid performance as Como picked up a 1-1 draw.
And former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Fabregas was pleased with the teenager's display, even if he wasn't satisfied with his team's overall showing. In fact, the Spaniard singled out Diao for praise in a glowing report of the youngster.
Fabregas said: "The only player I liked today was Assane Diao, even though he only returned from international duty on Thursday. He was the only one who tried something. I think we can do much better."
Diao represented Senegal for the first time last week. He came off the bench for his debut against Sudan on Saturday, March 22 before starting in a 2-0 win over Togo three days later. Having played for Spain as a youngster, Diao changed his international allegiance to be able to play for Senegal.
His form for Como has been excellent, having struggled for regular game time at Betis before his move to Italy. Diao had started just twice in La Liga for Manuel Pellegrini's side in the first half of the season.
United are no strangers to fishing for talent in Serie A, after signing Amad Diallo, Rasmus Hojlund, Joshua Zirkzee and Patrick Dorgu in recent years. They could add Diao to that list, though he isn't expected to come cheap, having signed a four-and-a-half year contract when he arrived at Como.
Diao's market value has risen since he joined Como, with United needing to pay at least more than double if they want to sign the forward this summer. Ruben Amorim is expected to dip into the market for attacking reinforcements, as United continue to search for more goals.
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