Manchester United have joined a growing list of European giants tracking Olympiacos wonderkid Charalampos Kostoulas, 17, ahead of the January transfer window.
Kostoulas, widely tipped as Greece’s next football sensation, has caught the attention of United scouts after a series of standout performances. Most recently, he impressed during Olympiacos’ goalless Europa League clash against Twente, where he earned a penalty – later missed by teammate Ayoub El Kaabi.
A United source confirmed to SunSport that scouts were present in Piraeus last Thursday to monitor the teenage striker. However, competition for Kostoulas’ signature is fierce. Reports from Greece suggest Bayern Munich, Juventus, Fiorentina, and Borussia Monchengladbach have also shown interest, with scouts from these clubs attending recent matches.
Despite the buzz, Olympiacos are determined to retain their starlet. The club is reportedly preparing a new contract offer once Kostoulas turns 18 in May, even though his current deal runs until 2026.
Kostoulas has emerged as a vital figure in Olympiacos’ first team, with two goals and an assist in 10 league appearances this season. His versatility – capable of leading the line, playing on the wings, or operating as a creative force behind the striker – makes him particularly attractive to Europe’s elite.
The young forward already boasts an impressive CV. He starred in Olympiacos’ UEFA Youth League-winning campaign last season, scoring five goals and providing two assists. That historic triumph saw Olympiacos defeat AC Milan in the final and become the first Greek club to claim a European trophy at youth level.
Kostoulas’ rise hasn’t gone unnoticed. He was awarded Greece’s Best Young Player for his efforts in Olympiacos’ B team’s second-division campaign last year. Alongside teammate Christos Mouzakitis, who recently became Greece’s youngest-ever competitive player,
United’s interest follows their recent focus on emerging talents, with youngsters like Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo breaking into the senior squad. The coming months will determine if the Red Devils can fend off their European rivals for Kostoulas’ coveted signature.
