11
Brighton and Hove Albion have reportedly succeeded in their bid to fend off overtures from Premier League rivals Manchester United and Chelsea in their wonderkid Darius Lane.
HITC reveals that United and Chelsea were keen on prying Lane from Brighton’s hands as part of their efforts to bolster their respective academies.
“One teenage star in Darius Lane has attracted interest from Manchester United and Chelsea but sources have told HITC that Brighton have done enough to keep hold of the American midfielder.”
“Sources have told HITC that the 16-year-old midfielder – who has been training with the US Olympic squad – is set to commit his future to The Seagulls.”
“There was strong interest emanating from both Chelsea and United, who have attempted to improve their academy set ups recently, but he will be remaining on the South Coast.”
Lane also had admirers outside England.
It’s understood that Ligue 1 duo Lyon and Marseille were also keen on adding the midfield prospect to their ranks.
Last week, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that Lane will put pen to paper on his first pro contract later this year, as soon as he turns 17.
It’s important to note that while he has been training with the US squad, Lane is also eligible to line up for England and France.
🔵🇺🇸 Brighton 16-year-old Darius Lane, set to sign pro contract at 17 as deal will be completed later this year.
Lane has been called up to the USA Olympic training squad; he can also represent, France and England. pic.twitter.com/IN3r9Unwi3
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 13, 2024
Back in February, The BBC spoke to a high-level scout, who named Lane as one of the Premier League academy players to watch out for.
The scout said, “Darius Lane from Brighton is another name to look out for. He’s a central midfielder, French-American and just got called up to represent America.”
“He’s a box-to-box, all-action style player and another one that I think has a really good opportunity to make it if Brighton provide him with the pathway.”
Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.
