MANCHESTER UNITED wonderkid Joe Hugill has agreed to sign a new contract at the club this week, according to reports.
The 19-year-old impressed boss Erik ten Hag during the Red Devils’ pre-season tour and has received transfer interest from the EFL.
According to the Daily Mail, the Dutchman has decided that Hugill’s development is better suited at Old Trafford rather than going out on a season-long loan.
The teen had received interest from a number of League One clubs who wanted the centre-back on loan.
Hugill joined from Sunderland in 2020. He started in the youth ranks of fierce rivals Newcastle.
Sunderland wanted him back on a loan at the start of the year but their interest was palmed off.
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After other EFL clubs enquired about his availability, United boss Ten Hag decided to take a further look at him during U21 training at Carrington.
The youngster shone in United’s pre-season and now the Dutchman wants to reward him with a new contract offer.
Hugill is now expected to formally “sign a new three-year deal at Old Trafford with the option of another season this week”.
He will continue to train with the first team while playing for the Red Devils U21s.
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Hugill already has three goals and an assist from four Premier League 2 matches this term and his development will be re-evaluated towards the end of the year.
The 6ft 2in hitman has already been compared to England captain Harry Kane.
The report also claims United could agree to loan him out in January to offer him more experience.
Meanwhile, United have signed goalkeeper Billy Hartley from Fleetwood Town and handed forward Gabriele Biancheri his first professional contract.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
