Juventus Target Reveals His Reason Behind Rejecting European Giants
REUTERS/Darren Staples
Switzerland Under-21 international Dimitri Oberlin has been creating a name for himself, as he is being monitored by top European clubs, including the likes of Real Madrid and Juventus.
Given his attributes, Manchester United wanted to sign the player three years ago, and despite coming close, failed to lure him to Old Trafford. The FC Basel wonderkid has gone on to reveal why he snubbed England’s most successful club at just 17 years of age.
The Manchester United target has revealed why he turned down the Old Trafford outfit, despite his parents allowing him to take the transfer. The Cameroon-born player stated: “Yes, they [United] had been watching me – the transfer almost happened. In the end I decided otherwise. My parents had allowed me to transfer, but I did not.”
With first team football in his sights, in the end, it turned out to be a brave decision from the player who was plying his trades at FC Zurich at the time. Oberlin then opted to join RB Salzburg, and gained progression in his game to go on loan to FC Basel, where he is currently playing.
The promising player also went on to state he feared immense competition that would be present right from the Under-18s up till the first team: “I would have started at the Under-18s, the way into the first team would have been far. The competition would have been massive.”
Earlier, reports stated that Italian champions Juventus have been eyeing Oberlin since he impressed at the 2014 UEFA European Under-17 Championship in Malta, but they could face competition for his signature, as Real Madrid are also said to be interested.
Written by Rajdeep Saha 
Sports journalist with stints across print, digital and television. Contribution to each medium has been thrilling. Experienced in writing for this passionate game called football. Journalist by choice and passion.