Liverpool and Manchester United are reportedly involved in a transfer race for Aston Villa starlet Carney Chukwuemeka, who is rated as 'the best 16-year-old in England' right now.

The teenage midfielder is also believed to be on Manchester City's radar, but Villa are hopeful they can persuade the youngster to commit his future.

The rising star has caught the attentions of the top clubs in England, while Liverpool and United scouts have been watching him in action for Villa's Under 18s this season, according to The Athletic.

Liverpool and Manchester United are leading the race for Aston Villa's Carney Chukwuemeka

Villa are confident they can strike a deal with the youngster and hand him a contract extension once the coronavirus crisis is over.

Discussions had taken place before the lockdown took effect, but there are a number of suitors ready to pounce if an agreement cannot be reached.

He is highly regarded at Villa, and it was their CEO - Christian Purslow - who described the England Under 17 international as the best in the country at his age.

Both Liverpool and Manchester United have been targeting young English talent in recent times.

Last summer Jurgen Klopp's side snapped up 16-year-old Harvey Elliott from Fulham, while United are also firmly in the hunt for Birmingham teenage star Jude Bellingham.