The force trying to lure him away from Old Trafford might be powerful but Manchester United is optimistic that Tahith Chong will keep the faith and remain part of the Red Devils. The 20-year-old winger is ending his contract this summer and big offers are coming his way. Still, United sees Chong sticking with the club.
Since Chong has yet to sign an extension deal with United, the Netherland international is now a target of European elites. The likes of Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Juventus have reportedly expressed interest with the agent for the youngster recently spotted in Italy.
The strongest indicator so far came from Inter and according to The Sun, Chong's representative has met with key officials of the Italian giants but details of the talks remain unknown.
Talents, however, from Old Trafford jumping to Milan and other Italian clubs are not exactly new. In the past, United academy graduate Paul Pogba transferred to Juventus and striker Romelu Lukaku was signed by Inter.
That is why Chong catching the fancy of Inter did not come as a surprise anymore. In fact, United seems certain that the winger, despite rejecting extension offers in the past, will not be moving out of England in the summer.
"Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen to see the youngster extend his stay at the club," the report said, adding the manager's long-term plan includes Chong.
Chong has played 10 games so far in the season but his exposure on the pitch will likely increase in case he agrees to sign for an extension.
The decision to integrate the youngster to United's future is part of the plan to let the young talents shine and in keeping with the club's tradition of giving them the chance to make a mark. Previously, Solskjaer has allowed Brandon Williams and Mason Greenwood to star in the season and two young players are now considered rising assets of the club.
United though is prepared in the event Chong will seek new challenges outside of the Premier League. According to Mirror, Solskjaer has already secured a deal that will see Nemanja Matic staying with the team.
There will be new signings as well and one of the most talked-about is Jadon Sancho that Solskjaer is looking from Borussia Dortmund. Also actively targeted is Jack Grealish that could be convinced to jump from Aston Villa.
The possibility is there too that Pogba, rumored to be leaving in the summer, could be convinced to stay as the United boss admitted he is looking forward to see the World Cup winner teaming up with fresh hire Bruno Fernandes.
