Manchester City eye ‘Next Lionel Messi’ also wanted by Real Madrid

Real Madrid have a terrific recent record when it comes to identifying top talents from around the world, signing them and then developing them into first-team starters at Santiago Bernabeu. The likes of Eduardo Camavinga, Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo and Fede Valverde were all highly-rated teenagers when they arrived at the club and have gone on to become superstars since then.

Naturally, one would expect Real Madrid to have their eye on the recent FIFA Under-17 World Cup, which was won by Germany. The standout player in the tournament did appear to be Claudio Echeverri of Argentina though.

The 17-year-old River Plate player’s highlight was clearly the hattrick against Brazil. But he impressed immensely in other games as well and is being dubbed the ‘Next Lionel Messi’.

Interestingly, Echeverri has been linked with Real Madrid for quite some time now. But Los Blancos are not the only ones after the Argentine’s signature.

Manchester City eye ‘Next Lionel Messi’ also wanted by Real Madrid

As reported by the Mirror, Manchester City are eyeing a move for Echeverri. They are hoping that the good relationship they formed with River Plate when they signed Julian Alvarez will give them an edge. The likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus also want the Argentine.

It is believed that there is a £21.44 million release clause in the contract Echeverri signed with River Plate in January. However, that figure does rise to £25.73 million within 10 days of any transfer window closing. But the Argentine club are rumoured to be looking to agree fresh terms with him and double that figure.

Thus, a lot of things are at play right now, with Echeverri emerging as one of the most exciting talents in world football. We have seen a lot of next Messis come and go over the years without meeting the expectations. Let’s see if the River Plate wonderkid is able to deliver.