Zambrano was considered “the new Caicedo” (Photo: Getty)

Manchester United are hoping to sign Ecuadorian midfield talent Oscar Zambrano and are determined not to repeat the mistakes of the past after missing compatriot Moises Caicedo three years ago.

In December 2020, United held talks about signing the then 19-year-old Caicedo from Ecuadorian club Independiente del Valle, but ultimately withdrew.

Reports at the time said that working with outside agents would jeopardize their interest, with Brighton set to sign him for just £4.5 million in January 2021.

Caicedo developed into one of the Premier League’s best young midfielders and moved to Chelsea last summer for a British record transfer fee of £115 million.

United had to rue a missed opportunity but are now keeping an eye on another young talent: Zambrano, who currently plays for LDU Quito in the Ecuadorian top flight.

According to El Futbolero, Luton Town have been monitoring the 19-year-old for several months.

But the publication now reports that United and Brighton are also interested in bringing him to England during the January transfer window.

United missed the chance to sign Caicedo for less than £5 million (Image: Getty)

Luton have reportedly already made a bid to sign Zambrano, but his club have decided to wait for further offers as interest arises from United and Brighton.

The report adds that United view Zambrano as “the new Caicedo” and believe he has shown similar qualities to the current Chelsea star, and they are wary of missing out on another prized talent from South America.

United are not expected to be busy in the January transfer market as major additions to the squad are unlikely.

The Red Devils are keen to sign another striker to ease the pressure on Rasmus Hojlund and have reportedly inquired about the availability of former Chelsea striker Timo Werner, now at RB Leipzig.

Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting from FC Bayern Munich is also on the shortlist alongside his teammate Thomas Müller.

United are also interested in Stuttgart striker Serhou Guirassy, ​​whose release clause is just £15 million.