Manchester United, Burnley and Borussia Dortmund have entered the race to sign Metz teenager Idrissa Gueye, adding serious competition for Brentford and Southampton.
The 18-year-old forward is attracting growing interest after making an immediate impact in France following his move from Generation Foot.
Brentford had hoped to secure Gueye quickly but now face a five-club battle for the highly rated Senegalese prospect in the 2025 summer transfer window.
Burnley are keen to offer a faster route to senior football, while Dortmund continue their tradition of developing young talent. United, meanwhile, see Gueye as a long-term project.
According to The Sun, Metz are holding out for around £15 million, with Brentford now under pressure to match that fee.
Gueye made headlines earlier this year when he scored on debut, only to suffer a dental injury during the match.