Stockport County have set their sights on Manchester United youngster Ethan Williams this summer, according to Football Insider.
The Hatters enjoyed an incredible first season in League One. They finished third and only five points off the automatic promotion spots. However, they suffered heartbreak in the play-offs, losing to Leyton Orient on penalties in the semi final.
Dave Challinor will feel his side have a real opportunity next season though. The absence of big spenders Birmingham City and Wrexham could make for a more open division, with those coming down from the Championship arguably weaker than the three that have gone up.
Stockport Face Battle For Attacker
Only Birmingham scored more goals than Stockport in League One last season, but it appears as if the Greater Manchester-based side are still looking for reinforcements at the attacking end of the pitch.
Louie Barry finished the club’s top scorer with 16 in all competitions, although his season-long loan spell from Aston Villa was cut short in January. It seems as though they are looking for a repeat, with it claimed they are interested in 19-year-old Williams.
The winger is highly regarded at Old Trafford and has been prolific in United’s youth sides over the past few years. He was given his first taste of senior football during the second half of the season, joining League Two outfit Cheltenham Town.
His time in Gloucestershire was seen as a success. He made 17 appearances for the Robins and pitched in with two goals and two assists.
It is claimed that the Red Devils are now planning to send the teenager out on loan again, albeit at a higher level. This has seen Stockport join the interested parties alongside fellow League One outfit Blackpool and Scottish Premiership side Hibernian.
Writer’s View
This could be a fascinating tussle for Williams this summer. Stockport offer the youngster a chance to play for a team who are expected to be challenging at the top end of League One whilst also being close to his parent club. However, Blackpool are managed by Manchester United legend Steve Bruce and may have the upper hand should he remain in England. Hibs are a slightly different entity. Top tier football in Scotland may be tempting, especially after their recent third placed finish will see them competing in the Europa League next season. Whoever wins the battle will be getting one of the most exciting prospects at Old Trafford.
