Manchester United are reportedly on the verge of signing teenage striker Blake Henry, who turned heads across the country by netting an astonishing 45 goals last season. The 14-year-old England youth international is set to leave Derby County this summer and join United's academy system, according to BBC Sport.
Prodigious Talent
Henry featured for Derby's under-18 Premier League side this season, becoming one of the youngest players ever to appear in the competition just months after his 14th birthday. He clocked up 24 minutes across two appearances in that competition but still managed to score 45 goals across all competitions and age groups, establishing himself as one of the most coveted attacking talents in the country.
Compensation and Transfer Details
Derby will be entitled to compensation when Henry completes his move to Old Trafford. The eventual figure will be determined by factors including his age, the duration of his time at Derby's academy, the academy category of the signing club, and his development and training costs. The initial step will be for both clubs to reach a mutual agreement; if that fails, the matter will be referred to a Professional Football Compensation Committee tribunal.
United's Summer Plans
United have been scouting promising youngsters at rival academies this summer to bolster their pipeline of emerging talent. They are also looking to improve their first-team squad as manager Michael Carrick prepares for his first full season in charge. The club has already agreed to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson, expected to be their first arrival of the summer window, and are interested in West Ham playmaker Mateus Fernandes.
