Why Jones could be a useful asset to injury scarred United squad
A report from Daily Mail suggests that Manchester United are on the lookout for Peterborough United teenager Ricky-Jade Jones, who is valued at over £2m.
The 17-year old attacker, who rose through the academy ranks at Peterborough, has played four times for the senior side this season.
Scouts from Manchester United, Tottenham, Southampton and Burnley were present to watch the teenage sensation, who was handed his league debut against Burton Albion, by manager Darren Ferguson.
Meanwhile, many other English clubs are also eyeing a move for the youngster, ahead of the January transfer window, as claimed by Daily Mail.
The young forward has been impressive of late, finding the back of the net two times for the League One outfit.
Earlier this month, Jones, who made his full debut against Cambridge United in the EFL trophy, scored his side’s second to help them eke out a 2-1 win over Cambridge United.
He was once again on the scoresheet, this time in the FA Cup match against Stevenage, which they won by a comfortable 2-0 margin.
The speedster came off the bench in the second half and scored in the final minutes of the game to seal the game in Peterborough’s favour.
His recent displays in the lower division had impressed many, with Tottenham Hotspur being one of the earliest sides to have approached with a £2million bid.
However, the bid was rejected by Peterborough, who had signed a new deal with him, earlier this month.
Meanwhile, it has not been the best of times for manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his United side, who endured a poor start to their season.
Problems aplenty mar the United dressing room with as many as eight in the first team side-lined due to injuries.
United have had issues in the attack, with only wide-forward Marcus Rashford looking consistent so far.
Rashford, who plays on the left wing, has scored the maximum goals for the Red Devils, with 7 league goals from 13 appearances.
The rest of the players, especially Anthony Martial, has failed to impress after what looked like a decent start. The Frenchman has 3 goals from 8 appearances in the league.
He last scored in the league against Norwich in October, and has since lost his way.
Meanwhile, United have another finisher in young academy graduate Mason Greenwood, but he has been restricted to the bench mostly.
Solskjaer, who has favoured youngsters over old guards this season, has however, limited the 18-year-old, as United do not have too many options left in their squad.
Hence, it is no wonder that a club like United are considering a move for the young and talented Jones, who is comfortable playing in the midfield as well.
Verdict
Blessed with good pace and versatility, Jones could be a useful asset to a side that has been marred by injuries this season.
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Moreover, the youngster could be a future investment for United, who have a clear dearth of potential talents up front.