Exclusive: Bradford City Agree to Sign Man United's Ethan Wheatley

Bradford City have reached an agreement with Manchester United to sign promising young striker Ethan Wheatley on loan until the end of the 2025-26 season, following his recent recall from Northampton Town.[1][2][3]

The 19-year-old forward, Manchester United's 250th academy graduate to make a senior appearance, impressed during his stint at Northampton in League One, where he made 25 appearances, scoring 3 goals and providing 2 assists. Despite not being the top scorer, Wheatley became a regular under manager Kevin Nolan, contributing key moments before an injury and subsequent recall earlier this month.[1][2][3][4]

Appearances	Goals	Assists
25	3	2

Wheatley's recall surprised Northampton, who had planned for him to stay the full season, but United deemed a move to a higher-placed side beneficial for his development. Currently third in League One and chasing promotion, Bradford are bolstering their attack after loaning out club legend Andy Cook to Grimsby Town. Manager Graham Alexander is targeting loan reinforcements, with Newcastle's Joe White already arriving and Harrison Ashby linked.[1][2][3]

Versatile like current forwards Will Swan, Stephen Humphrys, and Calum Kavanagh, Wheatley can play as a central striker or in advanced roles. His prior loans at Walsall (League Two) and four senior United outings—including Premier League debuts against Sheffield United, Crystal Palace, and Arsenal—highlight his potential.[1][2]

This deal aligns with United's youth development strategy, offering Wheatley a platform at promotion contenders Bradford over struggling Northampton (20th). Negotiations, reported by journalist Luca Bendoni, were swift ahead of the February 2 deadline, securing Bradford another League One-tested option.[1][2][3]

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