Manchester United are confident they can command a significant fee for academy midfielder Toby Collyer, though a departure is not guaranteed given the expanded fixture load across multiple competitions. Internally, the club has shifted towards prioritising younger talent as part of its long-term planning.
Vitek and Amass could follow
That stance was underlined earlier this month when Czech goalkeeper Radek Vitek, 22, joined Middlesbrough in a deal worth up to £14million, including add-ons, a buy-back clause and a 35% sell-on. Harry Amass, who impressed on loan at Sheffield Wednesday last season, could also depart before the window shuts next month, with suggestions he may be available for around £6m.
United are understood not to consider Amass ready for senior football. The 19-year-old shone at Wednesday before moving to Norwich City on loan for the second half of the campaign, and another temporary spell remains possible if a permanent move does not materialise.
Wheatley in talks with Everton
There are also a handful of young prospects that could either leave on loan or permanently. One is striker Ethan Wheatley, who is in talks with Everton according to the Daily Mail. The 20-year-old spent time with both Northampton Town and Bradford City last season.
United believe Collyer could follow a similar trajectory to Radek Vitek, with The Mail reporting that the club has intensified efforts to monetise its academy and could 'command a sizeable fee' for the 22-year-old midfielder.
Collyer's expected exit
Despite the fact he might benefit from United's expanded fixture list after securing European football, a departure remains on the table. The Manchester Evening News understands Collyer is still expected to be sold before the window closes, with United prepared to move on several academy graduates. He has featured throughout pre-season due to concerns over Mason Mount's fitness, but the plan remains for him to leave.
Collyer's breakthrough came under Ruben Amorim during an injury-hit spell, and Hull City, where he spent the second half of last season on loan, continue to hold interest. This season, Michael Carrick faces the challenge of competing on four fronts, increasing the strain on squad depth.
United's transfer activity
Reinforcements were essential, and United are still targeting additions at left-back and in attack - as well as potentially another midfielder. So far, the Reds have welcomed only three senior signings. Andrey Santos was the first arrival, joining from Chelsea for £50m. Karl Darlow followed on a free transfer after his Leeds United contract expired. Youri Tielemans was next, completing his move from Aston Villa.
