United starlet turns down new deal to make Preston move

Some rather disappointing news on the transfer front: highly rated local lad Josh Harrop is to leave Manchester United upon the expiry of his contract at the end of the month, having turned down the offer of a new deal to move to Preston North End. The Championship outfit confirmed the news on their website earlier on Friday, adding that the two clubs “have come to a significant undisclosed compensation agreement”.

Harrop, who made a goalscoring debut for United’s first team on the last day of the Premier League season, has explained the decision to leave Old Trafford:

“I'm 21 now and I'm confident in myself, I need to play first team football to get myself out there. That wasn't guaranteed at United, even though they offered me a new contract it was very limited in game time and so I couldn't take that risk at my age. I need to be out there, proving myself and doing what I know I'm capable of.”

As disappointing as it is, Harrop’s decision is a brave and fully understandable one. He was United’s top scorer in the reserves last season, netting 10 times in 25 appearances, and he seems ready to push on and establish himself among the big boys. Preston, who are hoping to be in another Premier League promotion in the upcoming campaign, could be a great option. Best of luck to him.