Manchester United are attempting to raid Manchester City’s academy for two 16-year-old talents, Xavier Parker and Karim Cassim.
Parker is an England youth international who featured for City’s Under-18s at just 15 and excels in an advanced midfield role.
Liverpool have also kept tabs on Parker, which adds another layer to United’s interest. Cassim, another England youth international, is also on the Old Trafford shortlist.
Manchester United want more than first-team fixes
The immediate focus around Manchester United will always sit with senior signings. However, this is the kind of academy move that shows a broader strategy.
United have placed major emphasis on landing elite young talent before the market becomes inflated. Trying to take two 16-year-olds from City’s system would fit that plan.
It would also carry local significance. City’s academy has built a strong reputation for producing technically secure players, and United know the value of winning those recruitment battles early.
Parker’s profile looks especially interesting because advanced midfielders with England youth pedigree rarely stay quiet for long. If United believe he can develop into a high-level creator, moving now makes sense.
Cassim’s inclusion also suggests this is not a one-player opportunity. United appear to be targeting a wider academy upgrade, not just reacting to one standout prospect.
For ReadManUtd readers, the senior transfer window may bring the headlines. But the Parker and Cassim pursuit points to something just as important: United trying to rebuild the talent pipeline before rivals lock it down.
