Swedish midfielder Oliver Mansson has suggested he could leave IFK Goteborg when the January transfer window opens, with Manchester United and Chelsea among the clubs reportedly tracking him.
The 17-year-old is regarded as one of Scandinavia's brightest young prospects and has attracted interest from several clubs across Europe. English sides including Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly monitoring his development, with speculation growing over a potential move in the winter window.
Mansson opens up on future talks
Mansson has done little to dampen that talk, admitting that he has been discussing his future with his agent ahead of the window.
"I'm talking to my agent about that," he told Swedish outlet GP. "There's a window coming up now. We'll see what happens. But we haven't talked much, I've been focused on the rest of the season... we'll see if I stay or go."
However, United may face competition from a club much closer to Mansson's heart. The teenager has made no secret of his childhood affection for Barcelona and suggested that a move to the Nou Camp would appeal to him.
"I'm open to a lot," he said. "When I was little I was rooting for Barca. It's a big step. I'm open to a lot, it should above all suit my style of play."
Barcelona interest and Goteborg stance
Last month, Mansson even admitted that he was "expecting a call" from the Catalan giants. However, Barcelona are understood not to have sent scouts to watch him, leaving the door open for other interested clubs to make their move.
Mansson made his senior debut for Goteborg towards the end of last season but has taken on a much more prominent role this term. The teenager has established himself as a regular in the side and has frequently caught the eye with his performances.
Goteborg are understood to be in a strong position when it comes to negotiating his departure, with the Swedish club potentially able to demand a record transfer fee. That would surpass the £7.6million Brighton paid to sign Malick Yalcouye in 2024.
United's record with young signings
Mansson is contracted to Goteborg until 2028 and, with interest in his services continuing to grow, the club will have little reason to accept a cut-price offer.
Manchester United, meanwhile, have shown on several occasions that they are willing to invest heavily in promising teenagers. They paid £59m for 18-year-old Leny Yoro in 2024, £36m for 19-year-old Anthony Martial in 2016 and £27m for 18-year-old Wayne Rooney in 2004.
United and Chelsea are not the only clubs keeping an eye on Mansson. Scouts from Roma, Freiburg, Leicester City and Watford were also present for Goteborg's 1-1 draw against Djurgarden last month.
And the youngster is clearly enjoying the attention, even if he insists his immediate priority remains on the pitch.
"It's really fun that these clubs are here," he said. "If they come to watch me, it means I'm doing things right. But I'm focused on the present."
