DUBLIN, IRELAND - MARCH 25: Breel Embolo of Switzerland during the International Friendly match between Republic of Ireland and Switzerland at Aviva Stadium on March 25, 2016 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Manchester United have been linked with 19-year-old Swiss forward Breel Embolo, who has attracted the interest of various European clubs in the last year.

Embolo, who is currently preparing for EURO 2016 with Switzerland, is reportedly in talks with Manchester United after a move to RB Leipzig fell through.

According to Swiss outlet 20 Minuten, United have opened discussions to sign the highly rated forward, who plays for Basel.

Whether or not a move materialises in the next few days – or even weeks – remains to be seen.

After all, it’s just two days until Switzerland play Albania in their opening Group A game at EURO 2016.

For many, Embolo’s name is a familiar one, even though he remains a teenager in a relatively small league.

The forward scored 10 goals for Basel in the Swiss Super League last season.

It’s easy to see why United, among other clubs, are keen to sign Embolo, whose potential is enormous if his performances as a youngster are anything to go by.

He is fast, powerful and possesses great athleticism – three qualities that most strikers need to have nowadays. He also appears to be a competent dribbler and can beat opponents in one-on-one situations.

Throw in a coolness in front of goal, as well as natural creativity around the penalty area, and you have the makings of a top-class striker.

Exklusiv: Breel Embolo vor Unterschrift bei Manchester United. https://t.co/Ckc1AaNTpF — 20 Minuten (@20min) June 9, 2016

The bottom line is that, if it’s not United, one of the bigger clubs around Europe will take the gamble on Embolo sooner rather than later.

What’s interesting is that United already have Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford signed to long-term deals. It also seems inevitable that Zlatan Ibrahimovic will join this summer, albeit on a short-term contract.

United’s interest in Embolo therefore suggests that Jose Mourinho is planning for the future.

Transfer rumours are best taken with a pinch of salt, especially when they involve players who are linked with so many different clubs. However, if United are genuinely interested in signing Embolo and manage to secure a deal, it’s clear that they would be buying one of the most promising young forwards in football.