Man United 'are interested in Welsh youngster Cruz Allen... with Chelsea and Newcastle also monitoring the 16-year-old midfielder'

Manchester United are reportedly among the clubs interested in signing highly-rated Derby youngster Cruz Allen.

Allen, 16, has impressed with the Rams' Under-18 side and his performances have attracted the attention of top Premier League sides, according to The Sun. 

Chelsea and Newcastle are also reportedly monitoring the midfielder, who has made four appearances for Wales' Under-17 team.  

He has scored three goals made three assists in seven matches in the Under-18 Premier League so far this season.

The Sun reports Derby are expecting bids for the highly-rated midfielder.

United manager Erik ten Hag will be hoping to strengthen in January with his squad hit by a slew of injuries during a difficult campaign.

It is not yet clear whether United will have any money to spend in the upcoming transfer window and they may have to again resort to loan signings.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is on the brink of completing a deal to take a 25 per cent stake in the club for around £1.3billion, more than a year since United were put up for sale by the Glazer family.

The impact of the arrival of the British billionaire and INEOS chief on United's transfer business is among the many questions that will need answering once the deal officially goes through.