Manchester United are worried about the future of a promising young player who made his first team debut earlier this month.
Manchester United have a well-earned reputation for giving opportunities to academy players. Some have gone onto become the club’s best ever players.
Current manager Erik ten Hag has continued this tradition, just as he did at former club Ajax. At Manchester United he has given debuts to five different academy players already.
The most recent was Omari Forson, who came off the bench in Manchester United’s 2-0 FA Cup third round win over Wigan Athletic earlier this month.
Omari Forson future in doubt
Omari Forson, 19, is highly rated and played a prominent role in pre-season, featuring in six out of eight matches.
However, the Daily Mail first reported this week that Omari Forson has rejected the offer of a new contract. His current deal is scheduled to expire in June.
United In Focus spoke to HITC Football‘s transfer expert Graeme Bailey to find out more about where the situation with Omari Forson stands.
Bailey explained: “He has turned down a contract, United are not happy. They are fearing they are going to lose him now.
“I understand there is Premier League and Championship interest. Championship clubs can offer him regular football, Premier League clubs can bring him into the squad, he’s one of those players who is going to have a lot of different options.
“United were shocked. They haven’t given up on it, but it’s one to watch. They are continuing talks but they were a bit taken aback.”
It’s not impossible a resolution is found before the end of this transfer window, and Forson signs a new deal and is sent out on loan. However, there might be first team opportunities with Facundo Pellistri expected to seal a loan exit. But it will all depend on his stance.
Bailey adds: “They have quite liked him round the first team squad, he’s done well. I wouldn’t rule him out being more involved in the first team, but that may be dependent on his attitude in terms of where he sees his long term future. If he’s going to dig his heels in and say I’m leaving, then opportunities are likely to be limited.”
Omari Forson’s season so far
Teenage winger Forson has been in action for the club’s under-21 side and also played in the UEFA Youth League and EFL Trophy in the first half of the season.
He has scored seven goals and provided two assists in eight total matches, an impressive record.
Forson was on the first team bench against Tottenham in the Premier League a fortnight ago, and was also an unused substitute in the Champions League twice, before making his bow in the FA Cup.
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