Man Utd snatch prolific striker from Man City for deal worth up to £1.4m
Manchester United have agreed to sign teenage striker Charlie McNeil from rivals Manchester City.
McNeil, 17, left United’s academy for City’s in 2013, but has now returned to the team he supports.
The prolific striker, who has more than 600 academy goals for City to his name, has signed a three-year contract with United. There will be the option to extend it into a fourth year once he turns 18.
According to the Telegraph, United have agreed to pay £675,000 for McNeil after negotiations with their rivals that were “far from straight forward”. Add-ons, including a clause relating to making a senior appearance for England, could take the total fee up to £1.4m.
United have beaten off a lot of competition to sign McNeil. The Telegraph add that Juventus and RB Leipzig wanted to take him to Europe, while British suitors included Celtic, Wolves, Rangers and Everton.
However, the player’s preference was to return to United, where he is likely to join the Under-18 ranks.
The Telegraph describe McNeil as a “lethal finisher” who is “comfortable with both feet”.
United continue to bolster youth ranks
United have also strengthened their academy by confirming the signings of Marc Jurado and Alvaro Fernandez after international clearance was granted for the former Barcelona and Real Madrid youngsters.
A third European youngster will also join them once he receives clearance as well.