Real Madrid and Manchester United both want to sign Fiorentina teenage sensation Khouma Babacar, likened by some to Chelsea hitman Didier Drogba.
The 16-year-old Senegalese striker is regarded as one of the most talented youngsters in Italy, and has been at Fiorentina since the summer of 2008.
Despite his young age, Babacar is already training with the Viola first team squad and coach Cesare Prandelli - famous for developing youngsters - believes the hitman is destined for the very top.
Babacar’s talent, and form for the Fiorentina Primavera side, has not passed unnoticed around Europe, and the player’s agent has confirmed that both Real Madrid and Manchester United want the African.
“Yes, it's true and there have not just been other enquiries but real and proper offers with some big clubs,” said Denis Rondanini.
“But in the end we chose Fiorentina because we are convinced that it's the right place for him and that he is in good hands both from the directors' point of view and from the technical management.
“I repeat, they will know when to launch him in the first team. Baba's qualities are under everyone's eyes but he is still a lad of 16-17 who has a lot to learn. From this point of view, the fact he is already able to train with the champions who play for Fiorentina is an honour for him.”
Italian clubs have had real problems in recent years with prodigious youngsters being poached by foreign clubs, particularly Premier League sides, and Fiorentina will be determined to keep hold of Babacar.
The 16-year-old Senegalese striker is regarded as one of the most talented youngsters in Italy, and has been at Fiorentina since the summer of 2008.
Despite his young age, Babacar is already training with the Viola first team squad and coach Cesare Prandelli - famous for developing youngsters - believes the hitman is destined for the very top.
Babacar’s talent, and form for the Fiorentina Primavera side, has not passed unnoticed around Europe, and the player’s agent has confirmed that both Real Madrid and Manchester United want the African.
“Yes, it's true and there have not just been other enquiries but real and proper offers with some big clubs,” said Denis Rondanini.
“But in the end we chose Fiorentina because we are convinced that it's the right place for him and that he is in good hands both from the directors' point of view and from the technical management.
“I repeat, they will know when to launch him in the first team. Baba's qualities are under everyone's eyes but he is still a lad of 16-17 who has a lot to learn. From this point of view, the fact he is already able to train with the champions who play for Fiorentina is an honour for him.”
Italian clubs have had real problems in recent years with prodigious youngsters being poached by foreign clubs, particularly Premier League sides, and Fiorentina will be determined to keep hold of Babacar.
