Exclusive: Man United set sights on signing Man City academy sensation
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(Credit: Imago/Getty Images) Mon 1 June 2026 16:36, UK Manchester United are eyeing a raid on neighbours Man City for highly-rated midfielder David Eze, sources have told Football Insider.United are keeping a close eye on Eze’s future at City and are ready to offer the 16-year-old the opportunity to make the switch to Old Trafford.The midfielder is very highly regarded at the Etihad, as well as internationally where both England, whom he has represented and captained at Under-16 level, and Ireland have been chasing his allegiance.Man United scouts have been impressed by what they have seen at academy level and could capitalise on uncertainty at Man City to lure him across Manchester.Eze will not be eligible to sign a professional contract at Man City until he turns 17 next year, and could be poached away as Man United accelerate transfer plans. 🔄 Man United Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on deals in progress, signing scoops, departures, and contract news from the United boardroom. VISIT THE TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Could Man United lure David Eze away from Man City?The Red Devils are placing increased focus on academy signings of late, after Football Insider revealed Man United want Crystal Palace’s Lucca Benetton.Eze has become the latest youngster linked with a move to Old Trafford in recent weeks, with the club making long-term plans to strengthen their squad for the future.David Eze StatsEngland Under-16sAppearances9Starts5Minutes Played468David Eze’s stats for England’s Under-16s squad.
(via Transfermarkt)The Man City midfielder is very highly-regarded in academy circles, with his ability to play different roles in midfield making him a valuable part of Man City’s youth side.However, their rivals are keen to add to their impressive academy squads, with their current crop of Under-18s having enjoyed plenty of success this season.Despite still playing at Under-16s level both for City and for England, Eze is preparing to make the step up and could feature for the Under-18s in the near future.Why do Man United want to sign Eze?Should United prove successful in their attempts to lure Eze away from their neighbours, he will link up with a squad bursting with talented stars.The Red Devils’ Under-18s, managed by Darren Fletcher, finished second in the Premier League North and were runners-up in the Premier League Cup and FA Youth Cup.Credit: ImagoDespite having missed out on silverware, however, there is plenty of United to be excited about with their next crop of players, and Eze could link up with the likes of JJ Gabriel.Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that coaches have been wowed by Gabriel and have high hopes of his development.The attacking midfielder has been the standout for United’s academy sides this season, and has been tipped to make steps up to continue his development. Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Man United Insider Access Get the full story from Old Trafford and Carrington with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Old Trafford.