Manchester United set to sign highly-rated Southampton youngster

The Red Devils continue to flex their muscles in the English under-18 market, having agreed to bring another in-demand prospect to the Theatre of Dreams ahead of a number of Premier League clubs.

Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign 15-year-old Harley Emsden-James from Southampton, subject to the Premier League’s investigation process.

Several Premier League clubs made approaches to sign the talented centre back, but he was convinced by United's proposal of a long-term project and eventual first-team pathway.

Emsden-James has impressed scouts with his ball-playing ability and athleticism, possessing many of the attributes associated with top-level modern centre backs.

The club’s recent track record when it comes to signing young players and providing them with first-team opportunities puts them in a strong position to attract in-demand talent from other clubs.

Ayden Heaven and Chido Obi are fine examples of this pathway, having both arrived from Arsenal in the last 12 months and made a handful of first-team appearances.

Heaven in particular has established himself as an important member of Ruben Amorim’s first-team squad, proving to be a trusty option in United’s back three whenever called upon.

United are keen to identify and recruit the country’s most talented young players, and see Southampton’s Emsden James as being firmly in that bracket.

The club will pay a compensation fee to Southampton in the region of £1m, similar to what was paid for Chido Obi last summer.