German giants Bayern Munich are among world powers keen to sign Adelaide United wonderkid Nestory Irankunda, manager Carl Veart has said.
But Veart says reports that the 17-year-old A-League star had agreed a deal with Bayern were false.
“No agreement has been reached at this stage,” Veart said.
“The last conversation I had was that there are still quite a few clubs throwing their hats in the ring.
“So I don’t think it will be a simple decision.”
Irankunda is only 17 but has already established a reputation as a generational talent with clubs around the world asking for his availability.
German Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich are one of the clubs probing Irankunda but no formal deal has been reached
Adelaide United manager Carl Veart wants to ensure his star player makes the best choice for his career when his time in the A-League is over
FIFA regulations prevent Irankunda from moving to Europe before his 18th birthday in February next year – a month after the transfer window closes.
Veart chose his words carefully about United’s sale of the explosive winger, who was drafted into the Socceroos squad as a coach last March.
“There’s a good chance we will, but we still have another season at least with him,” Veart said.
“The club will take its time before making a decision.
“And I guess Nestor also needs to take his time with his band to make sure the next step in his career is good and in a place where he can continue to grow.”
Veart called Irankunda a unique talent.
“In all my time in football in Australia, I have never seen a player who has such an impact on the supporters,” he said.
“Every time you see him take the ball, everyone lifts all over the stadium.
“He’s a very special player. And it’s important that we make sure we do everything that’s right for him and for Australia and (the) future of world football.
Irankunda has become a fan favorite for the Reds and has a big future ahead of him with some of the biggest clubs in the world interested in signing him.
Irankunda has been invited to join the Socceroos training squad and will be a key player for Australia at major tournaments in the future
Irankunda made another eye-catching appearance from the bench in Adelaide’s 2-0 knockout final win over Wellington Phoenix on Friday night.
“I take my hat off to him,” Veart said.
“He’s been very good in that he’s 17 and (minus) a lot of pressure – not just talking about where he’s going to go, but pressure on him to perform every time. he plays for us.”
“Fan expectations are tough, especially for a kid like Nestor.
“So I think he’s done really well and we hope he stays with us for as long as he can because he’s exciting.”