EXCLUSIVE: Boro’s England starlet being watched by Man Utd

Manchester United are keeping tabs on Middlesbrough starlet Steven Walker, according to TEAMtalk sources.

Walker, who has just turned 17, is regarded as one the gems of Boro’s highly acclaimed Academy.

The England Under-17 international was part of the Boro youth side comfortably beaten at United last month, but he was the stand-out performer, which included a brilliant individual effort from the Teessider. And he apparently caught the eye of United’s youth team staff, who have earmarked him as a potential recruit.

Boro are hopeful, despite his tender age, that the attacking midfielder could push for a place in Garry Monk’s first-team squad before the end of the season.

Walker, who scored against Man City’s Academy, has made seven appearances in the U18s Premier League this season, scoring four goals and he was on the bench for the 3-2 League Cup win over Accrington in September.

Walker has been capped by England Under-17s and Boro have high hopes for the youngster.

Boro academy coach Craig Liddle handed Walker his Academy debut in November 2016 and he scored and laid on an assist.

Liddle told the Evening Gazette: “Stephen did well.

“He is technically very good and has got an eye for goal, and it’s always good to give lads a test and see how they get on.”