SullyTalkz Exclusive: Manchester United are closing in on an agreement with academy starlet Noah Ajayi over his first professional contract at Old Trafford.
Manchester United are well-known for their youth development, with the Class of 92 being the most famous example of their academy success.
But even in recent years, with the club unstable, we have still seen the likes of Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford progress through the ranks to become regular first-team stars.
United have seemingly tasted a setback in this regard, however, with recent reports claiming that JJ Gabriel has requested to leave the club. He has been regarded as one of the best talents at Carrington.
While that news has disappointed many supporters, there are other exciting youngsters within the academy setup who are looking to progress into the first-team, including young winger Noah Ajayi.
Sources: Noah Ajayi In 'Advanced Talks' Over New Man Utd Contract
Ajayi, 17, is yet to sign professional terms at Old Trafford but recent developments suggest that is about to change.
Roundtable understands that Ajayi is in advanced talks with United over a professional contract. All parties expect an agreement to be reached.
The Hamburg-born winger has been impressing club staff over the last 12 months through his 'exceptional performances' for the Under-18s.
Last season, Ajayi scored nine goals and registered one assist in 22 fixtures, although he only started 14 of those games.
He is also expected to train more with Michael Carrick's first-team squad this season.
The Reds currently have Marcus Rashford, Patrick Dorgu and Matheus Cunha as first-team options at left-wing, while Tynan Thompson was also signed in the summer as another youthful option to float between the first-team and Under-21s.
United's winger issue
Ajayi's future at Old Trafford recently seemed uncertain, with some reports linking him with a return to German.
United will be pleased with keeping the youngster at the club moving forward, especially if they are set to lose JJ Gabriel this term.
The first-team has lacked natural wingers in recent years and it would be a huge boost if a youngster could push through the academy and challenge for spaces in Carrick's squad, similarly to how Alejandro Garnacho progressed under Erik ten Hag.
Ajayi will likely continue in the youth teams moving forward this season but will be hoping to impress in first-team training and make an impression on Carrick and his coaching staff.
Meanwhile, the likes of Shea Lacey and Harry Amass will also be hoping to make more appearances in the first-team after they both made their Champions League debuts last week.
