Man Utd suffer Christian Pulisic blow amid ‘big fan’ claim from Chelsea winger

Manchester United have been dealt a blow in their reported pursuit of Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic.

The American international has emerged as a target for the Red Devils in recent days amid widespread speculation over his future at Stamford Bridge.

Pulisic is understood to be frustrated at a lack of opportunity in West London, and could be permitted to leave on loan in the coming days to ensure that he earns more first-team minutes in the build-up to this winter’s World Cup.

For their part, United are said to be interested in a securing a temporary deal for the 23-year-old, but BBC Sport claim that they may be blocked in their efforts to lure him to Old Trafford.

It is suggested that Chelsea are “not willing” to send Pulisic to a club that they perceive to be a “traditional rival”.

As things stand, that could pour cold water on Erik ten Hag’s hopes of signing the attacker, but what has the player himself said about United in the past?

What is Pulisic’s views on United?

The American has previously spoken openly of his admiration for United, even going as far as to reveal that he was a “big” fan of the Red Devils as a boy.

Speaking to ESPN in 2017, while still on the books at Borussia Dortmund, he said: “I was a big Manchester United fan when I was younger.

“I loved to watch [Wayne] Rooney. I wouldn’t say I’m a similar player, though. I think his passion for the game is something you don’t see much in players. That’s what I loved about him.”

What has Pulisic said on his future at Chelsea?

Pulisic has made no secret of his desire to play more minutes in recent times.

Speaking earlier in the summer, as quoted by Football.London he said: “As far as right now, I’m obviously just focused on what I’m doing here [at the time Pulisic was on international duty].

“And I’m super excited to be here. And yeah, that’s it. Of course, I want to get more playing time. I want to be on the field as much as I can and be the sharpest I can be and fit as well.

“I think I still got a lot of games. But it’s always something that I’m working at and trying to be regular at club level as well to put myself in the best position to be fit when I come here with my national team.”