Arsenal and Chelsea scouts stunned by wonderkid's goal

Tom Weber

• Updated: 27 Sept 2024 19:25 BST
• 4 min read

Arsenal and Chelsea scouts were in attendance as Max Moerstedt scored a stunning Europa League goal, according to a report.

The German wonderkid is making a name for himself. One of the most highly-rated prospects in Hoffenheim's youth system, Moerstedt has been tipped for greatness for some time.

The towering striker won the U17 World Cup with Germany last November, scoring four goals in six games at the tournament in Indonesia. He was rewarded with a new, professional contract in February, but his integration into the senior side has been slower than some perhaps anticipated.

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The 18-year-old has only made five first-team appearances so far and he is still moving between the Bundesliga side and their fourth-tier reserves this season. In fact, he played more minutes (17) in his single Europa League appearance earlier this week than he has in two Bundesliga outings (four).

However, it was in this European game against Danish side FC Midtjylland that he illustrated just why he is so highly thought of.

Moerstedt impresses scouts

With Hoffenheim, who have been crisis-stricken this term, trailing 1-0, the teenager came on and made an instant impact, converting a cross with a Zlatan Ibrahimovic-esque scissor kick.

According to TBR Football, this goal delighted not only Hoffenheim fans but perhaps also Arsenal and Chelsea scouts. The report claims that representatives of both clubs were in attendance in Denmark to watch the striker.

Chelsea, in particular, are long-time admirers of Moerstedt and have been linked with him since his breakout performances at the World Cup. Man Utd were also previously associated with him.

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Given that Moerstedt has yet to properly establish himself as a first-team regular, it seems unlikely that anyone will make a move for him anytime soon, but his development is certainly being keenly watched.

After Max Beier, who joined Borussia Dortmund for almost €30 million in the summer, Moerstedt could eventually become another young striker named Max to be sold by Hoffenheim for big money.