Man Utd strengthen scouting network in search for ‘next Rashford’

David Lynch

• Updated: 19 May 2021 11:07 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United have strengthened their scouting system as they look to unearth the next Marcus Rashford or Mason Greenwood.

The Red Devils’ youth system has recently provided two high-class options up top to first-team manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in Rashford and Greenwood.

But they aren’t done there, as football director John Murtough revealed at a fans’ forum held earlier this month.

Murtough said: “The north-west area remains important to ensure we convince the next Marcus [Rashford], Jesse [Lingard] or Mason [Greenwood] to play for United.

“The scouting network across the rest of the UK have also been strengthened. Recently, two new scouts have came on board to focus on the London area.

“The club’s tradition of looking at bringing in the best 17-18 year olds from across the world will also continue. The scouting team work closely with Ole [Gunnar Solskjaer] to produce options for consideration based on the type of profile which Ole feels that the team needs.

“Ole has a veto, because as a club we will not sign a player that a manager doesn’t want.”

Solskjaer trusts youth

Solskjaer has handed out a number of first-team debuts to academy players since taking the reins at United.

Greenwood, Brandon Williams and Dean Henderson have all gone on to make a sustained impact on the senior side.

And the likes of Tahith Chong, Shola Shoretire and Teden Mengi will hope to follow in their footsteps in the years to come.