Manchester United confirmed the acquisition of teen sensation Ayden Heaven on February 1, following up on their capture of his one-time teammate Chido Obi-Martin in September.
The former Arsenal defender rejected improved terms from the London side and continental interest from Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt to join the growing list of youthful recruits in the North West.
Although his sole senior appearance came against Preston North End in a Carabao Cup outing last year, Heaven’s stock was high in North London, with Mikel Arteta doing his all to convince the youngster to extend his stay.
But the allure of first-team football was a significant draw for the Enfield player, and Ruben Amorim had earmarked him as an option to join his senior squad.
“Incredibly proud to join Manchester United”
Heaven has put pen to paper on a deal until June 2029 with the option of an additional year and will immediately join up with the first team.
“I am incredibly proud to join Manchester United. I’m grateful to everyone who helped make this dream a reality,” he said upon his arrival.
“There is so much that I want to achieve in the game, I’ll be giving everything to continue my development and become the best player that I can be.”
Manchester United technical director Jason Wilcox was delighted to unveil the youngster ahead of an eager media storm, appreciating the nature of the talent the club has obtained.
“This club has a phenomenal track record of supporting young players, and we believe that Ayden is in the perfect place to reach his excellent potential,” he stated proudly.
The 18-year-old inherits the number 26 shirt last worn by Dean Henderson and joins another teenage prodigy in Leny Yoro (19) in bolstering the defensive options for years to come.
Heaven offers a skillset and playing style comparable to Jarrad Branthwaite, a one-time target for Ineos officials. Naturally left-footed and an eager ball-playing defender, he is physically capable in ground and air duels, with notable composure.
Given the financial situation that has limited the spending capacity of the 20-time English champions, a deal in the region of £1.5 million for the youngster will alleviate a hazardous transfer pursuit.
For fans of the academy game, the one-time West Ham youth has routinely delivered performances of the highest level, with club officials eager to pair him alongside another technical player in Yoro.
Historically, Amorim has no fear in calling upon his underage prospects, and a history of entrusting talent over age is rich in the foundations of this football club.
Joining names like Sekou Kone, James Overy, Samuel Lusale and Obi-Martin alongside potential starlets like Amir Ibragimov, Manchester United are quietly manufacturing a formidable future under this new-look hierarchy.
We often speak about the necessity for shrewd signings.
It can’t always be a case of flashing your chequebook and buying a reputation. The Old Trafford kingpins have identified a starlet and responded in a manner befitting the club.
Long may it continue.
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