Manchester United and Liverpool ‘set to compete’ for breakout Leeds United star

Premier League rivals Manchester United and Liverpool could be in direct competition to sign Leeds United defender Charlie Cresswell in January, according to reports.

The 19-year old only made his Premier League debut in September but has caught the eye of the two English giants, as reported in the Sun.

The England Under-21 international wouldn't be available on the cheap though, having signed a contract extension at Elland Road in August that lasts until 2025.

Here’s everything you need to know about Cresswell and what whether or not a transfer is likely.

Who is Charlie Cresswell? Leeds United defender profiled

Cresswell made his senior debut for boyhood clubs Leeds earlier this season as he started in their 0-0 Carabao Cup draw away to Championship side Fulham.

He made his first Premier League appearance, again in the starting line-up, three days later as the Yorkshire club lost 2-1 at home to West Ham United.

Cresswell has since played three more times in the league this season, but they have all comes as late substitutes against Leicester City, Crystal Palace and Chelsea.

The youngster is currently out injured and expected to return later this month or in early February.

Cresswell’s dad, Richard, played for several clubs across the divisions between 1995 and 2013.

As well as also turning out for Leeds, Richard Cresswell was most notable for his spells with Sheffield United, Sheffield Wednesday and Preston North End where he made over 200 appearances for the Lilliywhites.

Are Manchester United and Liverpool interested in Charlie Cresswell?

Several news outlets are reporting interest from United and Liverpool in signing Cresswell this month.

The Sun were the first to break the news, saying that both clubs have been “huge fans since his top-flight debut in September.”

Out of United and Liverpool, it seems the former would be the more likely destination as interim head coach Ralf Rangnick has already been linked with several young prospects.

Meanwhile, Liverpool probably need to prioritise strengthening their forward area with players who can step straight into the first team at Anfield.

The Reds are set to lose both Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah to the Africa Cup of Nations this month, leaving them short at the top end of the park.