Manchester United has busy days ahead as they try to improve their lineup for next season. However, the Red Devils also need to look ahead and invest in youth. One of their targets is Charlie McNeill, a 16-year-old player who carved a name for himself with his staggering number of goals at a young level.
McNeill will be leaving Manchester City after the teenager reportedly thumbed down a professional contract to play at Etihad Stadium. That paved the way for United to make a run at the promising young player who will only turn 17 in September.
City and United are reportedly locked in talks and a deal is likely to reach seven figures. And the reason behind that hefty sum is self-explanatory. The England youth international has shown his uncanny talent of scoring goals, both for academy teams and at international competitions.
Though he has made a name for himself as a scorer, McNeill has also shown that he is a good passer. When he was playing for City's Under-15 side, he made 38 assists in 72 matches. This was aside from the 110 goals he scored. Having the ability to accomplish all that at a young age, there is no question McNeill is one of the young rising stars multiple clubs will covet.
After playing for City's Under 18s, McNeill wants to bring his talent elsewhere. United looms as the logical place to go, seeing how the teenager is a United supporter. He spent his junior years there before making a switch to City six years ago.
With talks falling through, City has no plans to stand in the way of McNeill. However, the Sky Blues want to get compensated well based on the talent of the rising footballer.
City is likely to entertain offers from other teams who could be interested in McNeill. Among the teams who could join the fray include Leeds United or Wolverhampton. Both are believed to be tracking the progress of the English wonderkid.
McNeill already sent feelers as early as last month that he was leaving Etihad Stadium. He thanked Manchester City on Instagram, showing his gratitude to the club for the past six years.
"It's been such a pleasure to play with some amazing players and I've made some amazing friends too. Thanks to all the staff and players for helping me develop as a player and also as a person. I wish everyone the very best," McNeill's Instagram post read.
