Manchester United are preparing for a fierce summer transfer battle with European giants Real Madrid and Barcelona as they target German teenage sensation Kennet Eichhorn, hailed as the potential long-term successor to Toni Kroos. The Red Devils, while currently focused on appointing a permanent manager, have identified the 16-year-old Hertha Berlin midfielder as a key addition to bolster their squad ahead of the next campaign.
European Elite Circle Hertha Berlin's Rising Star
According to reports from German publication Bild, Manchester United have expressed serious interest in Eichhorn, who has enjoyed a breakout season in the 2. Bundesliga. Before an ankle injury sidelined him, the youngster had established himself as a crucial player for Hertha, even scoring his first professional goal in a German Cup victory over Kaiserslauten in December.
His performances have not gone unnoticed, with a host of top clubs across the continent monitoring his progress. Alongside United, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich are all keen, while Bundesliga sides Eintracht Frankfurt, RB Leipzig, and Bayer Leverkusen are also admirers. Real Madrid are particularly intrigued, viewing the German prodigy as a future replacement for their legendary compatriot, Toni Kroos.
Affordable Release Clause Adds to Appeal
Eichhorn's contract with Hertha Berlin includes a release clause valued between €10 million and €12 million (approximately £8.6 million to £10.4 million), making him an attractive and relatively affordable prospect for Europe's elite. The midfielder only signed his first professional deal with Hertha last summer, indicating his rapid ascent in the football world.
Speaking after committing to Hertha, Eichhorn said: "I've been with Hertha since the U9s and have always been happy here. It's incredibly important to me that my development never stops, in any aspect. That's why I see Hertha as the best place for me." His dedication has been praised by teammates, including Hertha defender Toni Leistner, who remarked earlier this season: "It's unbelievable what the boy can do. He's mentally very focused with no airs or graces. I'm sure Hertha are going to have a lot of fun with him."
United's Midfield Reinforcements Amid Managerial Uncertainty
Manchester United's pursuit of Eichhorn comes as the club seeks to strengthen its midfield options, especially with Brazilian star Casemiro confirmed to be leaving at the end of the season. However, the Red Devils must first resolve their managerial situation. Interim manager Michael Carrick, who replaced Ruben Amorim on a contract until the season's end, has impressed by guiding United into the Champions League places with a run of five unbeaten games, including four wins.
Despite this positive impact, the club's hierarchy is actively searching for a permanent manager, a decision that will influence their transfer strategy. United will continue to scout Eichhorn closely for the remainder of the campaign, weighing up a potential move that could see them outmanoeuvre Spanish and German rivals in the race for one of Europe's most promising young talents.
