A busy January for Manchester United has seen the deals spill past deadline day with Ruben Curley’s transfer now announced.
For Manchester United, the winter transfer window saw plenty of players depart Carrington on loan for the rest of the season.
However, in the list of exits, there was only one player to leave permanently.
This was U21 star Ruben Curley who has joined Stoke, despite signing a new United contract in December.
Stoke made their move to sign Curley on deadline day and got it over the line at 10.50 pm on deadline day according to Andy Mitten, just about scraping through before the deadline.
The deal to sell Curley to Stoke was concluded on deadline day, yet wasn’t announced until Tuesday afternoon.
- READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfer deals for January 2025, ins, outs, loan moves, deadline date
Ruben Curley says goodbye after 13 years at Manchester United
With Stoke announcing the signing of Curley, he has officially departed Old Trafford after 13 years in the youth set-up.
After this was confirmed, Curley took to Instagram to bid farewell to his boyhood club with an emotional message.
“For the past 13 years, Manchester United has been my home. I’ve made some unforgettable memories and met some lifelong friends as well as all the amazing experiences this club has given me.
“I’d like to thank all my coaches and the staff throughout the years for supporting me in the highs and lows and developing me into the player and more importantly the person I am today. I’d also like to thank all of my teammates and I wish every single one of you the best in your journeys.
“It’s been an extremely tough decision but I feel it’s the right time to move on and take on new challenges.
“Thank you @manchesterunited and all of the fans that make this club so special. Once a red, always a red.”
Curley’s exit is a huge step for the young midfielder in his career, considering it was unlikely he would get a chance at United.
Shea Lacey and Gabriele Biancheri among Manchester United players to react
After Curley’s impassioned message to United, he had plenty of his – now former – teammates responding.
Shea Lacey was one to reply as he wrote: “All the best brother”, with a heart emoji. Dan Gore sent a similar message, writing: “All the best brother. Go n show em!!” with a heart emoji included as well.
Gabriele Biancheri wished Curley, “good luck”, followed by a heart emoji. With summer signing James Overy saying, “all the best” with a heart of his own.
Current United loanee Ethan Ennis commented: “All the best my boy”, with a heart emoji.
Jaydan Kamason added: “Good luck bro”, with a heart emoji.
Joe Hugill added “All the best brother” with a finger heart emoji. Following this, Maxi Oyedele added a pair of heart emojis.
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