Manchester United youngster Charlie McNeill is set for a loan move to League One this summer, according to Richard Fay at Manchester Evening News.
The 19-year-old forward spent the second half of last season on loan at Newport County in League Two, scoring two goals in 20 appearances for the Welsh club.
McNeill also scored in every group-stage fixture of the Papa Johns Trophy, helping his parent club reach the third round for the first time.
The Droylsden-born man was not part of the Manchester United squad that travelled to Oslo in mid-week, with Erik Ten Hag naming an academy XI in the second half of their victory over Leeds United.
The notable absence of the teenage striker in Norway is believed to be the result of interest coming in for the youngster on loan.
The former England U16 international was part of a ‘work experience scheme’ in 2021/22 with Sheffield Wednesday, which allowed him to train with the first team, but did not take part in any matches.
A move to the Exiles came to fruition the following season, with the United graduate turning down a host of clubs further up the pyramid due to assurances over playing time at Rodney Parade.
It is believed this desire for regular game time will be a key factor in his decision this summer, with McNeill prepared to drop down the leagues again, if a suitor cannot be found in League One.
Who is Charlie McNeill?
Born in Greater Manchester, McNeill began his career at his boyhood club in Manchester United, before making the switch to rivals Manchester City in 2014.
The 6ft forward scored over 600 goals at youth level in sky blue, before hitting headlines in 2020, as he re-joined the Red Devils for a reported £750,000 plus add-ons.
He made his senior debut in 2022 as a substitute in a Europa League fixture against Real Sociedad, a day before his 19th birthday.
What’s Been Said?
Speaking in April, Newport County manager Graham Coughlan confirmed his interest in bringing the young talent back to South Wales:
“We had to bring in young players in January and couldn’t do what some other clubs did, but I don’t think anybody has signed better,” he told South Wales Argus.
“The age and experience might count against him, but he has been brilliant and I hope we can keep giving him the education and development he needs, to go back to his parent club and compete for the first team after massive growth.
“But I wouldn’t say no to having him here again next season if Manchester United were open to that. I will pursue him for sure.”
On his individual qualities, the 48-year-old added:
“He stretches play, brings a bit of quality and all round it has been a really good loan – we hope Charlie and Manchester United see it that way as well. The football is totally different to Man United so it’s a great learning curve with the physical side of the game. Days like the 4-0 at Stockport are part of his education.”
Writer’s View
McNeill is arguably the most exciting and experienced member of the current crop of Manchester United youngsters. Prolific at youth level, the 19-year-old has shown the pedigree to score goals against League One and League Two opposition in the Papa Johns Trophy, although his numbers did not pull up any trees at Newport.
You have to commend a player that just wants to play as much football as possible, and his experience at the League Two strugglers will be valuable to his development. If playing-time remains the key factor in his choice, I could see a move to a top-end League Two or lower-end League One side on the cards.
