Cambridge United have announced the signing of former Manchester City prospect Ben Knight as they gear up for League Two football.
The U’s are facing a major rebuild as they fall down one division, with their retained list seeing 14 players depart the Abbey upon the expiry of their contracts. They currently have 12 senior players on their books, with only club captain Michael Morrison agreeing on a new contract so far.
Cambridge Makes First Signing
Neil Harris’ side have begun their transfer dealings with the signing of free agent striker and Cambridge local Ben Knight, who has joined the club on a one-year contract. The 22-year-old was previously on trial with the club in the final stages of this season following his release from Spanish third-tier side Real Murcia, and has previous experience in England with Manchester City, Ipswich Town and Crewe Alexandra.
He played 11 times for The Railwaymen back in 2021 and scored twice, and also went on loan to Stockport County but failed to register an appearance. His only senior game with Pep Guardiola’s side came in the 2021 Community Shield.
Speaking to the club’s media upon his arrival, Knight said:
“Although it’s been a difficult period recently for me, I can’t say enough about how well the Club have looked after me and I am determined to repay them now with my performances on the pitch. It is close to home and I have needed to enjoy my football again – I can’t wait to get started.”
Writers’ View
With Shane Lavery and Elias Kachunga still on the books at Cambridge United, reinforcing the striker position is likely not a priority for this window. However, with Ben Knight being on trial with the club and being a Cambridge native, it makes sense that this is the first signing the club makes as it will have been fairly straightforward to complete. There won’t be much expectation around him with his limited senior experience and that will allow him to learn from veterans like Lavery before making contributions on the pitch.
