Manchester United secure young talents from rivals Liverpool and Manchester City

By Brian Otieno — 22 July 2026 — 3 min read

Manchester United strengthens youth ranks

Manchester United has reportedly secured the services of three promising young players from rivals Liverpool and Manchester City. This move is understood to be a significant step in bolstering their youth academy. The players involved are Isaac Konde from Liverpool, and David Eze and Karim Cassim from Manchester City.

Reports indicate that Manchester United had been actively pursuing Eze, a 16-year-old attacking midfielder, and had previously given him a tour of their Carrington training facilities. The club has now reportedly won the race for his signature, along with those of Konde and Cassim.

All three players, despite their young age, could potentially join Darren Fletcher’s Under-18s squad for the upcoming season. Konde and Cassim have already gained experience playing U18s football for their respective former clubs, Liverpool and Manchester City. Eze is recognised as a highly talented player in English football.

The acquisition of these young talents aligns with a reported policy by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, chairman of INEOS, to sign relatively unknown gems and develop them into world-class players. Since assuming operational control of United in February 2024, Ratcliffe has reportedly emphasized this approach. Manchester United has previously secured other young players such as Sekou Kone, Patrick Dorgu, Ayden Heaven, Chido Obi, Leny Yoro, Harley Emsden-James, and Tynan Thompson.

Potential impact on the U18s squad

The new additions are expected to fill a potential void in the U18s squad, particularly if JJ Gabriel is promoted to the first team. Gabriel was recently pictured training with the Manchester United first team in preparation for their second pre-season match against Rosenborg.

Gabriel, who primarily played as an attacking midfielder last season, also covered roles as a centre-forward and on the left flank. Konde, Cassim, and Eze are seen as potential replacements in the U18s should Gabriel make the step up to Michael Carrick’s first team. Eze typically plays as an attacking midfielder, Cassim operates in a slightly deeper role, and Konde can play as a striker or a left-winger.

Their combined talents, alongside the existing players at Carrington, are expected to help Manchester United maintain a competitive edge at the top of the U18 Premier League North. Gabriel is reportedly under consideration to travel to Norway for the pre-season match against Rosenborg, and a debut could be possible.

Michael Carrick made numerous changes during the Wrexham match last weekend, and similar rotations are anticipated against Rosenborg. While Jack Fletcher and Toby Collyer played as attacking midfielders against Wrexham, Collyer is not a natural attacker, which could open an opportunity for Gabriel. He could also feature on the left flank, though he would need to displace Ethan Williams, as Patrick Dorgu is unlikely to be dropped from the starting lineup.

Konde, a 16-year-old winger, is known for his pace and dribbling skills. He primarily plays on the left flank but can also operate on the opposite side or as a forward. He has been a regular for Liverpool’s Under-18s. The transfer of these players from rival clubs highlights Manchester United’s continued focus on attracting top youth talent.

Source: roundtable.io