Man United, Liverpool and Arsenal scout the ‘next Michael Owen’

England youth international Max Clayton could cause a bidding war between Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United, with all three thought to be interested in nabbing the striker from Crewe. The 18-year-old has been compared to Michael Owen, having notched up 48 first team appearances since his debut with Crewe at the age of 16. talkSPORT's Transfer Spotlight has more...

Name: Max James Clayton
Date of birth: August 9, 1994
Birthplace: Crewe, England
Position: Striker
Club: Crewe Alexandra
Honours: League Two play-off winner (2011/12)
International: One England U19 cap

What's the latest?
Believed to be available for an estimated £3m, Arsenal scout Pat Rice is said to have recommended signing Clayton from Crewe in the January window, but any move from the Gunners isn't likely to go unchallenged. Liverpool, Manchester United and Newcastle have all reportedly sent scouts to watch him, so the price could rise if .

Did you know?

1) Clayton is a product of the youth system at local team Crewe Alexandra and break through to the first team along with Manchester United star Nick Powell.

2) Following his debut in 2010, Crewe manager Steve Davis admitted that Clayton continuously pestered him for more minutes in the following games. It seems to have paid off, with Clayton making 48 appearances for the senior team already, notching nine goals (four in 16 this season - up to 29 October 2012).

3) The youngster won the Football League Young Player of the Month award in August 2012, an accolade gained by former team-mate Nick Powell in January of the same year.

4) Clayton made his first England appearance for the U16s in 2011, moving up the ranks to his current level at U19.

5) The striker has admitted that Michael Owen is one of his heroes, suggesting comparisons with his movement and that of the former Liverpool man aren't just a coincidence.

They say
“I've had no inquiries about Max, only people watching. He's not ready to go anywhere. When the situation is right, he will leave to go in somebody's first team” Crewe manager Steve Davis

He says
“Nick and I played together from the age of five or six and there was not much between us. He has pushed on and I'm delighted for him. Hopefully I can go on and do bigger things”

Video evidence

Would Arsenal, Liverpool or Manchester United be the best destination for Max Clayton? Comment below and have your say...