Manchester United close in on transfer of Swiss star Nishan Burkart, claims player's dad

Swiss youngster Nishan Burkart is reportedly set to sign for Manchester United. The 16-year-old striker is preparing to move from FC Zurich to Old Trafford, having failed to agree a new contract with his current club.

Burkart has reportedly attracted interest from London clubs Arsenal and Chelsea. But the player's father, Stefan, has confirmed the Red Devils are the club he has chosen to join.

"We have decided to leave the club in the summer. Nishan switches to Manchester United. He just has different ideas, that's what business is like," Stefan told Blick about his son's impending move to United.

Zurich have admitted the player's intention is to leave the club and have confirmed they will not use him for the remainder of the current season. "Nishan Burkart's family have decided to move him to Manchester United," said Ancilo Canepa, the club's president. "Therefore, we have decided not to use the player. We are concerned with planning for the squad next season."

United's reported target is the captain of FC Zurich's under-16 side and is considered to be one of the brightest young talents in Switzerland. Assuming the transfer goes through, Burkart will link up with United's successful academy team.

Already this season, United boss Louis van Gaal has promoted the likes of Marcus Rashford and Timothy Fosu-Mensah to the first team. The Dutchman recently said, too, that he is committed to handing opportunities to young players.