Manchester United are tracking Republic of Ireland striker Michael Noonan, who scored an important goal against Canada to help the Boys in Green qualify for the last 16 of the U17 World Cup in Qatar.
The U17 World Cup presents the perfect opportunity for Manchester United to continue scouting the best talent ahead of the upcoming transfer windows.
United have paid attention to the competition in the past, notably signing Sekou Kone after his impressive performances for Mali in 2023.
Several youngsters have caught United’s attention at this year’s tournament, but that is likely to continue as the World Cup reaches its final stages.
Earlier this week, United In Focus revealed that United are scouting Michael Noonan and Vinnie Leonard from the Republic of Ireland.
Ireland’s win over Canada means Noonan and Leonard have more opportunities to impress United scouts in the Middle East.
Michael Noonan impresses as Ireland U17s beat Canada on penalties
The Irish U17 team progressed to the last 16 of the World Cup with a victory over Canada on Friday afternoon.
Shamrock Rovers’ striker Noonan, who has been garnering attention from United after impressing at youth level in Ireland, put the Boys in Green ahead in the second half before Canada equalised in the 85th minute.
Noonan took his goal superbly, taking advantage of a mistake at the back to knock home a composed finish.
The game went to extra time before a penalty shootout as Noonan scored the first penalty before Ireland went on to win the shootout, thanks to heroics from the goalkeeper.
Ireland will now take on Switzerland in the Round of 16 after the Swiss beat Egypt 3-1.
It promises to be an exciting fixture, and United are expected to keep a close eye on how Noonan performs.
Last five Republic of Ireland players to play for Man Utd
Although United have Republic of Ireland youth internationals in the academy, such as Jacob Devaney and Jack Moorhouse, this list only features players who played for United’s first-team.
The last Republic of Ireland international to play for United is former striker Will Keane.
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He is followed by Robbie Brady and Darron Gibson.
The others include John O’Shea and Liam Miller.
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