Man Utd battle former boss Jose Mourinho to land 'rough diamond' from Argentina

Manchester United have joined a number of clubs in the race to sign Club Atlético Colón star Facundo Farías this summer.

According to AS, the Red Devils are keen in making a move for the 19-year-old alongside Serie A trio Roma, Udinese, Sassuolo. Farias is currently under contract until December 2025 which may make a potential transfer hard to come by at the end of the season.

However, it is understood Jose Mourinho 's Roma are 'most interested' in the player, with Paris Saint-Germain and Porto also named in the report. Despite his contract situation, a move to Europe looks most likely for Farias, who has impressed since breaking through at the Argentinian side.

Farias, who made his first-team debut at Colon in 2019, has become an integral member of the side in recent months. Last season, he scored five goals and grabbed seven assists in 34 matches as Colon finished seventh in the Argentine Primera División.

Although he hasn't scored as many goals this term, Farias has still been impressive, playing in all positions across the front line and in the attacking midfield position. He is a versatile player and is able to slot into a number of roles when required, which could be an attractive feature for incoming United boss Erik ten Hag.

Farias has mostly featured as the no.10 this season - a position that is occupied by Bruno Fernandes at United. The Portuguese international has been criticised for his performances of late after failing to hit the same standards as he managed last season, directly contributing to 13 fewer goals this term.

Where will Manchester United finish next season? Let us know in the comments below!

However, the Red Devils don't have much cover for Fernandes in that position when he needs a rest or is out of form. Juan Mata, who has started the last two matches, is out of contract in the summer, while Paul Pogba is also set to leave United in the summer.

This would leave just Fernandes as the only player who can operate in the central attacking midfielder role. There is no doubt Farias could bring competition to the former Sporting Lisbon man, and although he is just 19, he has already clocked more than 50 senior appearances so far.

It is claimed that clubs in Europe view the teenager as 'rough diamond' due to his profile, qualities and age. Argentine giants Boca Juniors and River Plate have failed in attempts to sign him in the past.