Manchester United is reportedly on the brink of securing another promising addition to their youth ranks as Derby County’s highly rated young goalkeeper Charlie Hardy approaches moving to Old Trafford.
The news, first reported by Centredevils, demonstrates the club’s commitment to building for the future, along with strengthening its senior team.
This summer represents a fresh chapter of United under the leadership of Reuben Amorim.
The Portuguese manager endured a challenging introduction to life in Manchester, inheriting the side that fell for the worst Premier League finish.
Reuben Amorim has set up Man United to continue rebuilding
However, with a full season under his belt, Amorim was able to push his tactical authority onto the team, rebuild his team and set clearer long-term goals.
The focus of the transfer market was, of course, on strengthening the first team, but United’s recruitment strategy also focuses on securing some of the brightest young talent in the nation.
This approach is to ensure that the club not only competes quickly, but also maintains a strong pipeline of homemade talent for years to come.
So far, United have already turned down Enzo Kana Bijk and Harley Emsden James for the academy. Now it appears that Hardy is set to join that list.
Charlie Hardy made a promise when he was young
The 15-year-old has already shown maturity beyond his years, and has made four appearances last season despite still qualifying for the younger age group on the Under-18 side of the Derby.
Impressively he captained the team in a match against Leeds United, leading from behind and holding a clean sheet.
Hardy’s performance is not even noticed at the national level as he represents England in youth competitions.
If the deal goes as expected, United could add a goalkeeper with significant potential and be groomed by a potential future first team candidate.
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