Seven Premier League giants linked with Cardiff City kid amid 'exciting time'

https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/...gn=communities

Seven Premier League giants linked with Cardiff City kid amid 'exciting time'
The latest Bluebirds news from Cardiff City Stadium.

Seven Premier League giants eye Cardiff City kid
Cardiff City are facing a significant fight to keep hold of rising stars Dylan Lawlor and Ronan Kpakio, with a host of Premier League heavyweights tracking the teenage duo ahead of the January window.

The pair have progressed through the Bluebirds' academy together and their breakthroughs into Craig Bellamy’s Wales set-up this season have sent their stock soaring.

WalesOnline reported substantial interest in Lawlor during the summer before the Bluebirds tied him down to a fresh deal, which has seen him enjoy a rise in prominence owing to increased game time under Brian Barry-Murphy.

And now TEAMtalk report that more than half of the Premier League are now monitoring centre-back Lawlor, including all of the traditional “big six”.

Lawlor, who has made 19 senior appearances for City , is emerging as one of the most sought-after young defenders in the EFL.

Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea have reportedly joined Manchester City, Manchester United, Tottenham and Newcastle in checking on the 19-year-old, whose composure and quality on the ball have made him stand out at both club and international level.

Just last night, against AFC Wimbledon, he danced through their entire team after picking the ball up in his own half, only to be denied by goalkeeper Joe McDonnell's outstretched leg. He was at fault for one of the goals, though, showing he still has much to learn.

One recruitment source told TEAMtalk it is "easier to name the Premier League clubs not in for him" than those who are, while major Bundesliga sides Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig are also said to be keeping tabs on his progress.

Kpakio, 18, is also drawing growing attention, with many of the same top-flight sides scouting the dynamic full-back in recent weeks. While interest in Lawlor is thought to be more advanced, Kpakio is viewed as another high-ceiling prospect emerging from Cardiff’s pathway.

Cardiff's stance is that they do not have to sell anyone and any outgoings will be done on their terms, with their eyes clearly set on promotion back to the Championship.