Monaco bids for majority stake in 2nd-tier Belgian side Cercle Brugge

AS Monaco is attempting to extend its outreach in scouting and youth football by submitting an offer for a majority stake in Cercle Brugge, the second-largest professional club in the Belgian capital.

The principality outfit also stated that acquiring the second-tier club would provide the chance to give its academy players and recent youth-team graduates precious first-team experience in a professional league.

The partnership could be similar to one experienced between clubs in the City Football Group, with Manchester City sending youngsters to - and acquiring local talent from - affiliated teams New York City FC and Melbourne City.

Monaco expects a response to its offer for Brugge before the end of February.