Fenerbahce's fans cheer for their team during the Turkish Super league football match between Fenerbahce and Galatasaray on April 14, 2019 at the Fenerbahce stadium in Istanbul. (Photo by OZAN KOSE / AFP) (Photo credit should read OZAN KOSE/AFP/Getty Images)
Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly among a group of top European clubs monitoring Fenerbahce’s highly-rated young defender, Yusuf Akcicek.
The 19-year-old Turkish international is seen as a long-term investment, with his club reportedly placing a €20 million valuation on him.
According to Turkish outlet Ajansspor, both Premier League clubs are keeping close tabs on the versatile defender.
Akcicek’s ability to play as a left-sided center-back or even a right wing-back in a three-man defense has particularly piqued the interest of Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, who is focused on building a solid foundation for his system.
Tottenham’s interest in the player has also been ongoing since the end of last season. With Spurs reportedly nearing a loan deal for Luka Vuskovic to Hamburg, the club could create space in the squad for a new defensive prospect.
Akcicek is even being considered as an alternative to Piero Hincapié, a player Tottenham had been pursuing but who recently joined rivals Arsenal.
Akcicek’s value has soared under the tutelage of Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho, who gave him significant playing time last season, featuring in around 20 matches across all competitions.
This increased exposure and development have led to Fenerbahce’s reported €20 million asking price.
While both Manchester United and Tottenham view Akcicek as a promising talent for the future, the clubs may be hesitant to meet the current fee, given their focus on strengthening immediate first-team needs before the transfer window closes.
For now, a move may hinge on whether the clubs can secure their primary targets, but Akcicek is undoubtedly a player to watch.