Southampton boss Russell Martin has laughed off claims that Manchester United are eyeing a £21million move for Tyler Dibling.
The 18-year-old has impressed for Southampton so far this season and it appears talks over a new contract have stalled, with Dibling's current deal set to expire in 2026. A number of clubs around the world have been linked with Dibling, including Newcastle and several clubs. German teams.
Recent reports claimed United were considering a £21million bid for the winger, but Martin has insisted it will cost much more to tempt Southampton to sell their young star. “I heard some rumors about Man Utd, including a £21m offer,” he said.
“I'm not sure you get his left foot for that. We have offered him a contract, a very good contract for someone his age. At the moment I don't think his agent will agree, so that's where we're going .” again.
“I think Tyler wants it done, I think Tyler's parents want it done, so we'll see how long that takes. There is an option. We can extend. I don't think we want to do that – we want to reward Tyler for his performances.
“I've talked to Tyler's mom and dad about it, I've talked to Tyler, but I'm not involved in the negotiations. That's up to Phil.” [Parsons, chief executive] and the gang, the owners and Tyler's agent – and that's where things get tricky.”
Dibling is having a breakthrough season after returning to St Mary's in 2022 after a short spell at Chelsea, and Martin has previously revealed that United's sporting director Jason Wilcox was a big fan of the youngster during his time as Southampton's director of football.
“He has abilities that I haven't seen in many people,” Martin said. “It's a pleasure to watch him play football. He needs to be in an environment where he really feels trusted and loved, and we absolutely love him.”
“The boys in the dressing room understand how good he can be, but you can take some of that away [praise] because if we keep telling everyone how good he is, he won't be here much longer!
“Jason Wilcox pushed for us to play him more last season, but he wasn't quite ready. It's been wonderful to see Tyler's journey so far and he must keep going.”
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