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Malaga starlet Kuki - a target for Premier League clubs - profiled

BURTON-UPON-TRENT, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 09:  Jose Luis Zalazar of Spain in action during a U16 International match between England and Spain at St Georges Pa

Premier League giants Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City are monitoring Malaga starlet Kuki, according to the Daily Mail.

So, if the 16-year-old is to hop over to these shores, what can we expect? Here are your answers...

Start us off, what is his background?

Full name Jose Luis Zalazar Martinez, the Uruguayan nicknamed 'Kuki' was born in Montevideo, but has lived in Spain in recent years. His father, former Uruguay international Jose Luis Zalazar, also acts as his agent.

He was previously on the books of Albacete, the club his father played for during the 1990s, and joined Malaga's youth set-up in 2012 at the age of 14.

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini, who was in charge of Malaga until 2013, is one man with a vested interest, according to reports.

Manuel Pellegrini, coach of Manchester City looks on during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg match between Barcelona and Man City
Image: Manuel Pellegrini managed Malaga before moving to Manchester City in 2013

What is his experience?

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Kuki played 27 times for Malaga's Juvenil A (Under-19) side last season, and played in pre-season for Malaga's first-team last summer. 

He currently resides in Malaga's reserve side Atletico Malagueno, who sit third in Spain's fourth-tier Tercera Division.

The youngster also represents Spain Under-17s side, previously featuring at Under-15 level too, and scored in the 1-1 draw with France to secure La Roja's place in the forthcoming UEFA European Under-17 Championship in May.

Why are top teams reportedly after the 16-year-old?

A verstaile forward, capabale of occupying several attacking roles, Kuki also possesses a clinical finish. He can play as a centre-forward, second striker, and has been described by some as a playmaker in the past too.

He scored 10 goals for Malaga's Under-19 side last season, and continues to impress for club and country. 

What is his contract situation?

He signed a three-year senior deal in the summer, with an option for a further two years, and will turn 17 in May.

Kuki's current release clause is around £4.3million, which will double once he makes his debut for the first team.

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