Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly prepared to battle a host of Premier League clubs for Southampton prodigy Tyler Dibling.
The 18-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in senior football this season, starring for the Saints as they struggle in the Premier League.
It has been reported that a numbers of clubs are monitoring the development of Dibling, including Aston Villa, who have likened the winger to former player and captain Jack Grealish.
The England Under-21 international has impressed massively with his performances in the top-flight so far, including during the Saints' 3-2 defeat to Liverpool on November 24.
Dibling also has a Premier League goal to his name, finding the net during a clash with relegation rivals Ipswich Town at St Mary's on September 21.
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Man United, Chelsea 'in race' for Southampton star Dibling
According to CaughtOffside, a new Premier League powerhouse have emerged as a potential destination for Southampton star Dibling in the near future.
The report claims that Chelsea have joined the race for the 18-year-old, with the Blues continuing to target the best young talent from across the globe.
Enzo Maresca's men are set to face stiff competition for Dibling, who is also supposedly being watched by Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United and West Ham United.
It is understood that top-flight whipping boys Southampton are reluctant to sell the winger, who has the talent to grow into a Premier League and international star.
However, with the vultures circling profusely around Dibling, it is believed that the Saints would be open to considering offers worth £21m for the player.
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Matter of time for Dibling
Already eight points from safety at the foot of the Premier League standings, Southampton are hurtling towards an immediate return to the Championship.
With that in mind, it is hard to imagine the Saints keeping hold of Dibling past the conclusion of this season should he continue to impress in the top flight.
However, there is a danger that the 18-year-old moves to a high-profile club and proceeds to sit on the bench, limiting his development.
As a result, it is vital that Dibling and the people around him select the side that will be able to guarantee regular first-team minutes to some degree.
Carter White
