Man City & Man Utd Set For Transfer War Over Burkina Faso Prodigy Mohamed Zongo

The rivalry between Manchester City and Manchester United is heating up once again—this time, not for trophies, but for the signature of Burkina Faso’s 15-year-old sensation Mohamed Zongo.

After an electric campaign at the U17 World Cup, where he delivered goals, assists, and man-of-the-match performances, Zongo has become one of the hottest young prospects on the global market. Now, both Manchester giants have formally approached the Tenakourou Academy, with the race already shaping into a transfer battle that could define the next generation.

The Manchester Clubs Are Moving Fast

According to Africa Foot, both City and United have opened talks with Zongo’s academy after his breakout on the world stage. His numbers alone turned heads:

• 2 Goals

• 3 Assists

• Multiple Man of the Match awards

• A decisive goal against Germany

• Leadership in taking Burkina Faso to the quarter-finals

For a 15-year-old, that’s elite territory.

Why Zongo Is So Special

Zongo has been described as a “next-gen Yaya Touré” — a big comparison, but scouts say it fits.
He combines:

• Creativity

• Physical maturity

• Aggressive ball-carrying

• Tactical awareness

• Defensive work rate

He can feature as a No. 10, a box-to-box midfielder, or even a wide playmaker. His versatility is extremely rare at his age.

City’s Pitch: Elite Development

Manchester City remain one of the world’s best factories for young talent. Zongo fits City Football Group’s model perfectly—multi-functional, intelligent, technically strong.
He could:

• Develop in their academy

• Earn group-wide minutes

• Or eventually break into Guardiola’s side

City see long-term upside and immediate value.

United’s Pitch: Identity & Rebuild

Under INEOS, Manchester United are rebuilding their football identity around youth and smart recruitment. Signing Zongo would be symbolic—a statement of intent.

With United already signing U17 stars like Sekou Kone, they want another cornerstone talent for the new era.

A Symbolic Battle For Manchester

This isn’t just a transfer chase—it’s a power move.

Winning the signature of Africa’s brightest teen talent would:

• Boost academy branding

• Strengthen global scouting reputation

• Reinforce long-term squad planning

• Prevent a rival from gaining an elite asset

For both clubs, losing Zongo to the other side of Manchester would sting.

What Happens Next?

There is no deal close yet.
Zongo remains with the Tenakourou Academy while clubs:

• Build long-term development plans

• Outline pathway guarantees

• Prepare financial proposals

Europe’s elite are circling—and the Manchester clubs can’t afford to blink.