Man Utd chase Norwegian winger as Romano eyes Barcelona January move

At 15 years and 20 days, Gabriel Rajkovic became the youngest player ever to feature in Norway’s Eliteserien, breaking Martin Ødegaard’s record. Manchester United have turned their attention to the 15‑year‑old Norwegian winger, with Fabrizio Romano confirming the Red Devils’ co‑owners INEOS are hopeful of a January move.

Rajkovic was promoted to Valerenga Fotball’s first‑team squad in January 2026 when he was just 14. He signed a professional contract with Valerenga in March 2026 after turning 15 the month before and is under contract until December 2028.

He made his senior debut in March against Sandefjord in the Eliteserien, aged 15 years and 20 days. The appearance made him the youngest ever in the Norwegian top flight, overtaking Martin Ødegaard’s previous record with Stromsgodset Toppfotball.

European clubs line up for the prodigy

TEAMtalk’s transfer insider Graeme Bailey reported that Manchester United, often referred to as Man Utd, are among several clubs tracking the Valerenga Fotball winger. Arsenal and Chelsea have compiled extensive dossiers, while Real Madrid and Liverpool also feature on his trail.

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One scout told TEAMtalk, “His stature, two‑footedness and ability to play centrally as well as on the flank is a huge appeal. He might only be 15, but he is already a hugely impressive figure – there is nobody like him for his age.”

Balancing a Barcelona left‑back dilemma

Romano has also given the Red Devils’ co‑owners INEOS hope of securing Barcelona left‑back Alejandro Balde for Old Trafford in the January window. He explained that United explored a loan with a mandatory‑buy clause, but Barcelona insisted on a permanent transfer.

Discussions involved super‑agent Jorge Mendes and Barca director Deco, yet the Spanish side rejected a loan and flagged salary concerns. Romano added that Ian Maatsen, another United target, will sign a new contract at Aston Villa, limiting further movement in January.

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The dual focus on a teenage winger and a high‑profile left‑back illustrates the pressure on top clubs to balance youthful potential with financial‑fair‑play constraints. As INEOS evaluates options, the market will watch whether United can secure either deal before the mid‑season deadline. The January window traditionally sees clubs scramble for value, making United’s pursuit of both a prodigy and a left‑back particularly noteworthy.