Ligue 1 expert feels Man United move would have come too soon for Pape Matar Sarr

Get French Football News’ Adam White believes a move to Manchester United could have halted highly-rated youngster Pape Matar Sarr’s progress.

Sarr broke onto the scene last season, with the defensive midfielder making 26 appearances for French side Metz. He also contributed further forward, registering four goals.

The 18-year-old started both of Metz’s first two Ligue 1 fixtures of the campaign despite rumours he could be on his way to the Premier League.

Manchester United, along with rivals Manchester City and Chelsea, were said to be tracking the Senegal international and mulling over a move before the transfer window slams shut at the end of the month.

Premier League rivals Everton, Aston Villa and Newcastle United have also been rumoured as suitors of Sarr, who is seen as one of the most exciting prospects in French football. However, as per Sky Sports, it is Tottenham who look to have won the race for the player.

And White, who has watched Sarr closely, thinks a move to Old Trafford would have come too soon.

He told TIF: “He could mature and grow with another two years out of the spotlight.

“He’d have done so much more growing rather than being thrown in at the deep end at Manchester United and being told to go and win the Champions League.

“A top-end Ligue 1 club or a mid-level Premier League club would perhaps be a better stepping stone for him personally. He’d probably end up a better player in 10 years’ time.”