Chelsea are going head-to-head with Manchester City to sign Sunderland teen sensation Bali Mumba after the 17-year-old left scouts in awe against Halifax on Wednesday, according to The Sun.
The newspaper report that officials from both sides were in attendance at the FA Youth Cup clash and were blown away by Mumba’s display in a 1-0 win for the Black Cats.
The Sun claim that City were previously at the front of the queue to sign the exciting central midfielder, with the club willing to shell out £2.5million, but Chelsea have now made their interest known as well.
It is said that Mumba is happy at the club but Sunderland may end up cashing in ahead of the January window, with finances low for Jack Ross at the Stadium of Light.
Good move for Chelsea?
Yes.
Mumba looks to be a real talent who could go on to big things, and Chelsea would do well to snap him up before any of their rivals get to him.
The 17-year-old is obviously held in high regard at the Stadium of Light, having made four first-team appearances so far for the team, and is obviously ready to step up a level in his development.
Chelsea have a fantastic academy set-up and so many promising young players coming through, and Mumba would only add to that.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
It does look like Sunderland may end up cashing in on their prize asset in the January window, with manager Ross possibly looking to beef up his squad for a push at the title.
City’s interest in Mumba looks to be slightly more developed than the Blues’, but they could easily win this race if they submit a bid for the 17-year-old in the coming weeks.
City’s financial might may end up being the deciding factor here, but Chelsea are no slouches in the market, and it could come down to personal preference.
This is Futbol rating: 4/10