MANCHESTER UNITED have completed the signing of youngster Harley Emsden-James from Southampton.
The 16-year-old England youth defender will join a crop of young talent in Manchester.
instagram @harleyemsdenjamesHarley Emsden-James announced the deal on his Instagram[/caption]
instagram @harleyemsdenjamesThe 16-year-old’s heartfelt message included that he felt the move was a “dream come true”[/caption]
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Emsden-James released a heartfelt message in an announcement on Instagram.
He said: “Proud and grateful to sign for Manchester United.
“A dream come true and the start of an exciting new chapter.
“Can’t wait to get started.”
The centre-back will join up with the Red Devils’ U16 side, with an eye on progressing to the U18s this season.
United have a history of poaching Premier League youth talent.
Striker Chido Obi, 17, was one of Arsenal‘s brightest prospects before he was snapped up by the Red Devils on a hefty contract last year.
Defender Ayden Heaven, 18, also made the switch from the Gunners’ youth ranks in February.
GettyChido Obi, 17, featured in the Premier League for Man Utd last season under Amorim[/caption]
Both teenagers ended up featuring in Ruben Amorim’s senior team last season, suggesting that the door will eventually open for Emsden-James.
United have been targeting younger players of late in the hope of discovering bargains before their price balloons.
But that hasn’t stopped them from splashing the cash this season, having spent £133.5 million on signing Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo alone.
United are still in the hunt for another striker as well, with Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and RB Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko both targets.
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