Gambian winger Abdoulie Manneh has found himself in the centre of a heated battle between multiple top-flight clubs, Footy-Africa can exclusively reveal.
The 21-year-old star has been a subject of intense interest from a trio of clubs, including Championship side Coventry City, Premier League outfit AFC Bournemouth, and now, freshly, Stoke City, who have entered the race with a significantly more attractive offer.
Mjällby AIF suspends negotiations with Coventry City
Manneh, who currently plies his trade with Swedish side Mjällby AIF, has been drawing attention due to his explosive pace, technical skills, and ability to make an impact in the attacking third. Coventry City had made an offer of €4.5 million for the young winger, but the Swedish club has recently put negotiations on hold.
Reports suggest that Mjällby AIF is now reconsidering their stance after Stoke City, a club with Premier League ambitions, made an enticing bid that surpassed Coventry’s offer.
It’s clear that the arrival of a bigger offer has shifted the balance of power in this transfer saga, with Mjällby now weighing their options.
Abdoulie Manneh linked with Premier League as Bournemouth reignites interest
Stoke City throws digger did into the mix
Stoke City, who are in the midst of a resurgence under manager Alex Neil, are hoping to strengthen their squad with talented, high-potential players. The Potters, currently competing in the Championship, have their sights set on a return to the Premier League and are looking to bolster their attack with young, dynamic talent like Manneh.
The significant increase in the offer from Stoke City appears to have captured the attention of Mjällby AIF, putting them in a more advantageous position when it comes to negotiations.
While Stoke’s bid has yet to be made public, it’s expected to be well beyond €4.5 million, with some reports suggesting it could be closer to €6 million or more. If the deal goes through, it could represent a major step forward in Manneh’s career, giving him the chance to test himself at a higher level.
Manneh’s transfer drama: fake failed medical and pressure from Olympiacos
AFC Bournemouth’s legal review still pending
Meanwhile, AFC Bournemouth, who currently sit in the Premier League, are still exploring the possibility of bringing Manneh to the English top flight.
The Cherries have expressed interest in the winger, but they are reportedly in the process of reviewing the legal requirements to determine if Manneh meets the necessary criteria to play in the Premier League.
With Brexit regulations in place, there are certain hurdles that players from non-EU countries like the Gambia must clear to play in England.
These include the player’s international experience, the number of appearances made for their national team, and their overall standing in the world football landscape. Bournemouth’s legal team is diligently working through these requirements to ensure that a potential deal can move forward.
