Premier League giants Manchester United have joined the race to sign Rico Henry from Sky Bet League One side Walsall, according to the Express and Star. 

Walsall manager Dean Smith could have a fight on his hands in keeping Rico Henry at the Bescot Stadium
Walsall manager Dean Smith could have a fight on his hands in keeping Rico Henry at the Bescot Stadium

The 18-year-old is an academy product at the Bescot Stadium and broke into the first team last season.

He may only have made nine appearances in the league last time round, but he has cemented a first team spot this year after making 14 appearances and netting two goals - the latest of which coming in the Saddlers' 1-0 win at Scunthorpe United in September.

He has been described as 'the best 18-year-old winger in the country' by his manager Dean Smith, and has caught the attention of a number of Premier League sides including Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa and Manchester City.

Now Louis van Gaal's United have joined the chase, after the Dutchman is believed to have sent scouts to watch the youngster against Swindon Town in midweek.

If it wasn't tough enough the Saddlers to keep hold of their young star, it certainly is now, as Premier League sides are on red alert for young, English talent after the stunning emergence of Dele Alli at Tottenham

This means that any Football League side with young Englishmen on their books will have a fight on their hands to keep them.

Walsall fans... what do you make of this news? Is Henry your most exciting young player? Will he be a top Premier League winger? How long will it be before you can't keep hold of him any more? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!