Manchester United 'hold talks' for Swansea duo as Harry Maguire update emerges

Manchester United are reportedly going head-to-head with Manchester City for highly-rated Swansea City youth duo Harlan Perry and Brogan Popham.

That's according to the Mirror, who reports both clubs have 'scheduled meetings' with both players' representatives after registering an interest. Perry, a 16-year-old midfielder who represents Wales under-17s, cannot sign a professional contract until he turns 17 in November.

Popham meanwhile, is thought to have made a strong impression upon scouts and the Swans are facing a tough fight to keep hold of the Welsh under-18's defender. The 17-year-old is yet to sign his first professional deal with the Championship club, however.

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If Swansea lose either player, they will be entitled to a compensation fee as both are currently only tied down to scholarship terms. With that said, Tottenham and Arsenal are also reported as being 'admirers' of the pair but it's said their interest is 'nowhere near as strong' as the Manchester duo.

United have recently completed a major coup for 16-year-old striker Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal, fighting off strong interest from both Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich. The Reds were waiting for approval from the Premier League to complete the transfer.

Elsewhere, United will reportedly not rush to make a decision over Harry Maguire's future, as he is currently in the final year of his contract. The club are thought to have a 12-month extension clause in his contract which can be triggered.

Football Insider claim United are 'desperate' not to let Maguire leave the club for free next summer but feel they are in a good position as the extension can be triggered if a suitable buyer can't be found. Maguire came close to joining West Ham last year but the move fell through.

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