Manchester United are looking to fend off their Premier League rivals as they look to secure the services of an England U19 defender when the youngster’s contract expires.
Whether it be the first team or the academy, the mood surrounding Manchester United has much improved since the beginning of 2026, with the Reds completely transforming their aspirations for the season.
Since the appointment of Michael Carrick as an interim manager, United have climbed up to third in the Premier League, with six wins, one draw and one defeat from eight games.
Despite a goal from Casemiro, the Reds suffered their first defeat under Carrick on Wednesday night, as they were bested by a ten-man Newcastle United side at St. James’ Park.
With a busy summer transfer period expected at Old Trafford, United have reportedly set their sights on an 18-year-old English defender who has recently broken into Fulham’s first-team picture.
United battling over Amissah
As reported by The Telegraph, United are set to battle it out with both Arsenal and Chelsea over the summer for the services of U19 defender Samuel Amissah when his contract runs out at Fulham in three months’ time.
The young English talent has recently managed to earn a spot in Marco Silva’s squad, having been named on the bench seven times for the Cottagers this season.
Amissah captained England in the U17 European Championships and is currently in the U19 squad for the Three Lions, along with United’s Jack Fletcher.
If United were to be successful in their pursuit of the teenage defender, then he would add to an already stacked young core of defenders, along with Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro.
United preparing for the future
The Red Devils have been commended for their transfer business over the past few windows, with their signings being a blend of both young talents and Premier League-proven stars.
It seems as if United are readying themselves for years to come with their acquisitions, as well as trying to climb back to the heights of the UEFA Champions League.
With both Yoro and Heaven now well established within the first team picture, Amissah would be brought in to help improve what is already a fantastic academy.
Considering that the Reds already have the likes of JJ Gabriel and Chido Obi impressing for the youth sides, it is clear that they aren’t resting on their laurels when it comes to acquiring teenage talents.
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