Man Utd complete signing of 16-year-old wonderkid

Cameron Smith

• 24 Oct 2025 18:37 BST
• 6 min read

News

Manchester United have reportedly completed the signing of England U16 goalkeeper Charlie Hardy.

The teenager confirmed his departure from Derby County with a post on Instagram in September and he has now joined Man Utd’s academy system on a free transfer.

That is according to The Athletic, who state that Hardy will sign scholarship terms at Old Trafford before becoming eligible for his first professional contract when he turns 17 years old next July.

Hardy, who has five caps for England’s U16 team, made a total of four appearances for Derby’s U18s during his time at the club and he is expected to immediately join Darren Fletcher’s group of U18s at Man Utd.

Hardy announced his Derby exit last month, with an Instagram post that read: “After almost a decade at Derby County, the time has now come for a new chapter.

“It’s been an incredible nine years here. I just want to thank everyone at the club who has supported me throughout my journey and helped me to become the player and person I am today.

“I’m grateful for all the memories I’ve made throughout my time at the club and the lads I’ve played alongside, I wish everyone at the club the best for the future.”

He has now left Pride Park on a free transfer due to being a category one scholar.

Man Utd complete Charlie Hardy transfer

Hardy is the latest teenager to join Man Utd under INEOS’ reign, with the Red Devils placing a larger emphasis on bolstering their academy over the past year.

Ruben Amorim’s side completed the signing of highly-rated young striker Chido Obi from Arsenal last summer, while they also raided the Gunners for Ayden Heaven during the January transfer window.

In addition, Man Utd added the likes of Diego Leon (Cerro Porteno), Enzo Kana-Biyik (Le Havre) and Harley Emsden-James (Southampton) this summer.

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