Manchester United and Arsenal to battle for 21-year-old La Liga breakout talent: Reports

Manchester United and Arsenal are closely monitoring Sevilla’s 21-year-old winger Juanlu Sanchez following his impressive performances at the 2024 Paris Olympics, according to journalist Ekrem Konur. Juanlu helped Spain secure the gold medal at the event, catching the attention of multiple European clubs, including the two English giants and Real Madrid.

As per Spanish outlet ABC Sevilla (via United In Focus), Manchester United approached Juanlu during the summer transfer window. While a deal didn’t materialize, the Red Devils remain interested in the versatile winger.

Despite adding five new players to their squad this summer, United did not reinforce their wide positions even as Jadon Sancho moved to Chelsea.

Juanlu has been a standout player for Sevilla, appearing in all four of their La Liga matches this season. Known for his versatility, he has played as a winger, an attacking midfielder, and even right-back, often filling in for club legend Jesus Navas, who is set to retire at the end of the season.

With 43 senior appearances already under his belt, Juanlu is seen as a promising talent, and both Manchester United and Arsenal are looking to secure his signature.

The Gunners are looking to bolster their attacking options and have reportedly joined the race for Juanlu. They signed Raheem Sterling on loan this summer and could be back in the market for a winger if they decide against making the move permanent in 2025.

Juanlu’s contract with Sevilla runs until 2026, but the La Liga side may consider cashing in next summer to avoid losing him for free later on.

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How have Arsenal and Manchester United started their respective Premier League 2024-25 seasons

After three matchdays, the Premier League table has started taking shape. Arsenal, with seven points, have gone into the international break with a bitter taste in their mouth after dropping points against Brighton & Hove Albion.

The Gunners started their 2024-25 campaign with a clinical 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. They backed up that result with a 2-0 win against Aston Villa at Villa Park.

Against Brighton, Mikel Arteta's men took the lead through Kai Havertz in the first half. However, the momentum completely shifted after Declan Rice received a controversial second yellow in the 49th minute.

Down to 10 men, Arsenal were fortunate to walk away with a point. After the international break, they'll run straight into their North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

Manchester United, on the other hand, have had a shambolic start to the season. After earning three points against Fulham in the opener, the Red Devils suffered a defeat against Brighton, thanks to a late winner from Joao Pedro. The struggles only intensified for Erik ten Hag after Liverpool hammered them 3-0 at Old Trafford. Up next, the Premier League giants will square off against newly promoted Southampton.