16 hours ago
53
Manchester United have confirmed that young talent Jack Fletcher is training with the first team in preparation for Sunday's Premier League opener against Arsenal at Old Trafford.
Fletcher, son of former United midfielder and current Under-18s manager Darren, is one of the most promising players emerging from the club's academy. The young midfielder recently joined the club's pre-season tour of the United States, making an appearance off the bench in the second half of the 2-1 victory over West Ham United at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
He also came on as a substitute in the 0-0 stalemate against Leeds United following the US tour. Despite scoring four goals in nine Premier League 2 appearances for United's Under-21s last season, the 18-year-old has yet to make his competitive debut for the first team. However, he was listed as a substitute on seven occasions last season.
Fletcher, along with his brother Tyler, made the move from Manchester City to United in the summer of 2023. The pair crossed the Manchester divide for a combined fee of £1.25 million.
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
As they prepare for Sunday's Premier League opener against the Gunners, United are somewhat lacking in midfield options. The club's website paints a picture of how thin on the ground United are in that particular department.
Following Dan Gore's loan move to Rotherham United earlier this summer, the Red Devils now have just six midfielders listed in their first-team squad on their official website. However, that number is set to decrease further with Toby Collyer expected to depart on loan soon.
Additionally, Ruben Amorim has earmarked Mason Mount as a No. 10, leaving Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte, Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes as the senior midfield options for the Portuguese boss.
The Old Trafford outfit are eager to bolster their midfield before the transfer window shuts on September 1 and have shown interest in Brighton and Hove Albion star Carlos Baleba.
The countdown is on to the 2025/26 Premier League campaign - and our pre-season guide is the ideal way to prepare for the action ahead.
As well as in-depth analysis and opinion on your club, we turn the spotlight on every team battling for top-flight glory - or simply survival in the toughest league in the world!
Also full fixtures guide so you don't miss a game in what is set to be a thrilling season.
Get your copy NOW
English (US) ·