Leicester City manager Russell Martin has said he would tell Manchester United director of football Jason Wilcox "to go away" if he attempted to sign teenager Louis Page.
Teenage talent attracting interest
The 18-year-old was named the EFL Apprentice of the Year last season and is regarded as one of the most exciting prospects in the Football League. Page has already made 21 senior appearances for Leicester, including five starts last season, and played in their Carabao Cup win over Northampton on Saturday.
Martin, who was appointed Leicester boss following the club's relegation to League One, previously worked with Wilcox at Southampton. Despite their history, he made clear Page is not for sale.
Manager's blunt message
Speaking to Sky Sports, Martin joked: "Louis is a really fantastic young player. Obviously, I know the director of football at Manchester United very well after spending some time with Southampton. So we haven't actually spoken with Louis because he probably knows what I'd say to him and tell him to go away."
He added: "But no, until something comes in that is really brilliant for the club, the player, and everyone is happy, then Louis stays, and he's in the squad. I'm really enjoying working with him. He's a fantastic young player."
Contract and rival interest
Page signed professional terms with Leicester in September last year, meaning United would need to agree a transfer fee to secure his services. Arsenal and Aston Villa have also shown interest.
Leicester have already lost forward Jeremy Monga, 17, to Manchester City this summer and are keen to avoid another departure. After Page signed his deal, the club said: "After joining us at Under-9s, Louis has progressed through our Academy ranks and developed within the LCFC pathway into one of the brightest talents in our system."
