Man Utd set to have wonderkid, 16, POACHED in ‘revenge’ transfer by rivals Man City despite offering him highest deal
MANCHESTER UNITED are set to lose academy starlet Harrison Parker in a “revenge” transfer to Manchester City, according to reports.
The 16-year-old joined the Red Devils from Arsenal in the summer of 2021.
He has impressed in United’s academy, attracting interest from plenty of clubs.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, City are closing in on agreement to bring Parker to the blue side of Manchester.
He adds that United offered the centre-back their “highest youth deal” in a bid to try to keep him.
But City appear to have beaten off interest from four other clubs to sign him.
The moves comes with United set to sign Darren Fletcher’s 16-year-old twin sons, Jack and Tyler, from the City academy.
And according to Manchester Evening News, City’s move for Harrison has come in response to this.
The report adds that while United made a significant contractual offer, they were unwilling to break their wage structure and meet demands for a higher salary.
While primarily involved with United’s Under-16s last season, Parker has already gained experience of playing with their Under-18s.
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City’s academy has earned plenty of accolades in recent years.
Their Elite Development Squad have won the Premier League 2 for the last three consecutive seasons.
While their Under-18s collected the FA Youth Cup in 2020.
Parker has represented England at Under-18 level.
He has recently posted pictures of himself training “for the new season ahead” – without wearing Man Utd gear.
Upon leaving Arsenal two years ago, Parker posted a thank you message to the Gunners alongside a picture of himself with Jack Wilshere.
He wrote at the time: “After 9 brilliant years at Arsenal I have finally decided to end my journey with them as it’s time for a new chapter.
“I am grateful for all the time and experiences they have given me to help me become the player I am today those memories will last forever.
“Also like to say a thank you to all the staff and coaches that have helped me on my journey so far, forever grateful.”
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