Former Manchester United striker Charlie McNeill has completed a move to Championship outfit Sheffield Wednesday, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.
The 20-year-old has been on the hunt for a new home following his release from Old Trafford at the end of last season. His departure did come as somewhat of a surprise, with the youngster regularly billed as one of the Red Devils’ next ‘wonder kids’.
Having scored over 600 goals at youth level and having yo-yoed between Manchester United and Manchester City’s academy, the attacker has often been touted to have a huge future in the game. He really came into his own for United at under-18 level though, scoring 34 times in just 35 appearances, before backing that up with 12 goals in 47 outings for the under-21s.
After making his debut as a late substitute in the Europa League clash with Real Sociedad in 2022, whilst also netting three times against senior League One and Two teams in the EFL Trophy, he made a loan move to Newport County. His time with the Exiles was considered somewhat of a success, earning him another temporary home at Stevenage last season.
His time at the Lamex Stadium provided his first career setback. It all started brightly enough, scoring on his debut against Leyton Orient. However, he made just two more appearances before the deal was cut short in January. Despite that, there has been no shortage of interest following his released from the Theatre of Dreams.
According to The Star, clubs from Serie A and the MLS were keen to recruit the youngster, although they reported yesterday that McNeill was edging closer to a move to Hillsborough. It was stated that terms had been agreed and a medical had been arranged. This now looks to be complete and the striker will head to the Championship side.
The Owls have been extremely active in the transfer window thus far, bringing in seven new recruits as they aim for a more comfortable campaign next season.
Writer’s View
McNeill was widely touted as the future of Manchester United’s front line, so his release at the end of last season came as a shock. That said, his time at Stevenage was a bit of a disaster, which may have had a say in their decision.
Still, he is only 20-years-old and there have been several players that have had loan moves fail before going on to become top footballers (Harry Kane springs to mind). The fact that there was so much interest shows that he is still highly rated. Sheffield Wednesday are taking a punt, but it is one worth taking.
