Malcolm Ebiowei: Who is the Derby forward being linked with transfer to Man Utd

With the transfer window wide open and clubs in England looking to bolster their squads ahead of the new season rumours of who Manchester United could sign have been constant.

This in part is due to the arrival of new Red Devils manager Erik ten Hag, who is expected to put his own stamp on the squad before the new campaign begins.

One name who has been linked with a switch to Old Trafford this summer is Malcolm Ebiowei.

According to Fabrizio Romano, United and Crystal Palace are ‘leading the race’ for the 18-year-old Derby County forward, while Monaco are also interested in his signature.

The Italian journalist didn’t mention a fee, however, expects the forward to remain in England if he departs Pride Park.

Who is Malcolm Ebiowei?

Born in England on 4 September 2003, Ebiowei has one cap for England’s Under-16 level to his name.

The 18-year-old broke into Derby’s first team this season after sealing a move from Rangers last summer and has previously spent time in Arsenal’s youth Academy.

Though he has represented the Three Lions at U-16 level he is also eligible to represent the Netherlands, having earned two U-15 caps in 2018.

Last season form

According to whoscored.com, Ebiowei performed at an overall average of 6.85 for the Rams last season and registered more assists (2) than departing duo Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata.

Though predominantly a right winger, who likes to cut inside on his left foot, Gakpo can also play on the right and up top.

How likely is the deal to go ahead?

With Derby currently in administration and their future still up in the air, it is likely the club would look to offload players under contract in order to raise funds to keep the club afloat.

Though United face competition from Palace for the 18-year-old, it’s expected, due to their links with Rams boss Wayne Rooney, that they could win the race for the promising forward.