Manchester United are looking increasingly likely to beat Premier League rivals Chelsea to the signing of 16-year-old left-back Harry Amass.
Amass plays for Watford and is a highly promising England youth international.
The full-back was being tracked by a number of top English clubs but after a breakthrough in talks, the Red Devils now have the upper hand in the transfer race.
The Evening Standard exclusively reports, “Manchester United are expected to beat Chelsea to the signing of Watford left-back Harry Amass.
“The England Under-16s defender is in advanced talks with the Carabao Cup winners, opting to leave Vicarage Road despite making the first-team squad in January at just 15 years old.”
“Now 16, the attacking full-back believes that training in a top academy will further his development more quickly rather than remaining in the Championship where he can get a fast-tracked route to the first team.”
Amass, who has also played as a centre-back before, was named on Watford’s senior bench for the Hornets’ FA Cup clash against Reading.
At Vicarage Road, the 16-year-old is considered one of the brightest talents for the future.
Amass has become a mainstay in Charlie Daniels’ U-18s team. When he completes his United transfer, the youngster will head into United’s U-18s squad for the 2023-24 season.
His imminent signing follows the recruitment of Gabriele Biancheri, also 16, who joined from Cardiff City.
Like Amass, Biancheri was on the radar of a number of English clubs, but the Red Devils warded off competition and added him to their ranks.
The signings of Amass and Biancheri represent United’s increasing interest in securing the services of young British talents since Brexit. Brexit put a stop to deals for non-UK players before they turn 18.
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