Liverpool and Man Utd chase ‘wonderkid’ taken by European giants despite ongoing transfer talks
Liverpool and Manchester United are now up against a third big club in the race to sign 16-year-old Aboubacar Maiga, according to reports. Both English giants have been in talks to bring the talented Malian midfielder on board after his impressive performances at Academie Africa Foot.
Barcelona is also interested, but it looks like another top European team is taking the lead. Paris Saint-Germain, the recent back-to-back Champions League winners, are now the favourites to sign Maiga, according to TEAMtalk.
“The 16-year-old attacking star is seen as one of Africa’s brightest young talents and has been attracting interest from Europe’s biggest clubs for over a year,” says Graeme Bailey. “Known as the ‘Malian Messi’ by fans who have followed his rise, Maiga has been shining at Academie Africa Foot, one of Africa’s top football academies.”
PSG has stepped up their efforts lately, and Maiga is currently in France as they take a closer look at him. Sources say PSG’s project has really impressed Maiga and his team, and the club is confident they can beat their many rivals to sign him.
Liverpool, Man Utd, and Barcelona are still watching closely, but unless something big changes soon, the French champions seem the most likely to land one of Africa’s most exciting young players.
Maiga, who captains the Mali under-16 team, is also being watched by other Premier League clubs and the Red Bull football group. But the fight from PSG could end their chances.
Academie Africa Foot, based in Bamako, Mali, focuses on developing young talent. It was created six years ago as part of Africa Foot and works closely with Barcelona, using their training methods. The academy balances football training with education and language lessons too.