Manchester United close in on Charlie McNeill

Manchester United continue to build out their under-23 side as reports emerged suggesting they were close to signing Charlie McNeill from Manchester City.

The 17-year-old striker used to play for United as a youth player and supports the club, but had previously made the switch to City’s setup.

However he has rejected the offer of a professional contract at the Etihad and is now avialable to leave the club. If he joins United then they will have to pay around £750,000 for the player, who has scored over 600 goals at various junior levels.

United have been looking to improve the quality of their youth sides, and had taken 18-year-old former Yeovil Town striker Devon Arnold on trial. There is also a chance for former Borussia Dortmund attacker Reda Khadra, who also had a trial with Stoke City when the 19-year-old left the German side.

Marc Jurado, Alvaro Fernandez, and Isak Hansen-Aaroen have also joined this summer, and there were also moves for Joe Hugill and Radek Vitek. Given United have produced Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay, Mason Greenwood and Brandon Williams over the last few years it is clear that there is a path to the first team, which may encourage younger players to make the switch to United’s system.

McNeill had also attracted interest from Rangers, and RB Leipzig and Juventus were also linked with a move for the striker. The teenager is expected to challenge for a first team place in the coming years but will not be in contention for a spot this season at least.

United have signed Odion Ighalo on loan until the start of 2021, but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer may add another striker to the squad before the end of the transfer window. A right winger, left back and central defender are also areas the manager wants to strengthen.