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Manchester United’s recruitment work never really stops, even as the Premier League schedule continues.
Clubs across the division are taking action earlier than ever to secure the next wave of talent, with academy moves now a constant part of the modern game.
Manchester City’s youth system is one of the most productive in England and regularly produces players who play at senior level.
This also means their most coveted prospects can quickly grab attention, especially when exits seem likely.
Claim youth movement
According to Football insiderUnited have held talks over a move for City Academy left-back Kasen Brown.
The report says the 15-year-old is expected to leave the Etihad at the end of the season, with a departure described as imminent.
Football Insider adds that Brighton, Nottingham Forest and Leeds United are also interested in the youngster.
The paper describes Brown as “one of the most promising left-backs in England” after impressing in City’s academy and featuring for the Under-16s.
| Player | Kasen Brown |
| Age | 15 |
| Position | Left back |
| United link | Discussions held |
| Other clubs mentioned | Brighton, Nottingham Forest, Leeds |
Football Insider also highlights Brown’s involvement in last summer’s Future Star Cup in Shanghai, where he made two appearances and scored once as City finished fourth.
Call Young Lions
The report adds that Brown has received his first call-up to the England Under-16 squad.
The Under-16s will face Spain in a friendly on Monday, February 23, 2026, which could offer the defender an early opportunity to make his international debut.
In a post shared on X by The England Academy account, Brown was also billed as one of the standout under-16 left-backs currently in the country.
A scouting post circulating on
Kasen Brown | 15 | LB | Manchester City
🪪
—Technical skill
—Ball-carrying
—Ball retention
—Defensive awareness
—Tempo
🔍
—one of the most sought-after academy defenders in the country following his decision to leave the Etihad
–technically elite LB… pic.twitter.com/3b6vbrzteB— gem (@baoball) February 14, 2026
City have developed a habit of producing top talent, with Phil Foden and Cole Palmer both leaving their teams.
However, Football Insider notes that others have moved on earlier in their careers, citing Morgan Rogers and Jadon Sancho as examples.
For United, the appeal is clear if the report is correct: a chance to secure a highly rated left-back before he takes his next development step elsewhere.
With several clubs reportedly in the mix and no fee figures mentioned, the situation remains one to monitor rather than a deal close to being completed.
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