Manchester United are reportedly attempting to sign two promising youth players from Manchester City, Xavier Parker and Karim Cassim, according to the Daily Mail. The move, which would see the Red Devils raid their rivals for talent, is unlikely to be welcomed by new City manager Enzo Maresca. Parker, a 16-year-old England U16s international, joined City from West Ham in 2024, while Cassim, also 16 and an England U17s player, has impressed in City’s youth setup with 10 goals in 13 appearances last season.
This potential double swoop echoes a similar situation from 2023 when United signed twins Jack and Tyler Fletcher from City, a transfer that cost the Manchester club £1.25 million in compensation. United have been actively investing in their academy in recent years, and the addition of Parker and Cassim would further bolster their youth ranks. City, however, have a strong track record of developing young players into first-team stars, with recent graduates including Rico Lewis and Phil Foden.
Beyond the pursuit of young talent, United are also making progress in their efforts to strengthen the senior squad. Germany international Felix Nmecha, currently at Borussia Dortmund, has reportedly indicated a preference for a move to Old Trafford, provided they can offer Champions League football. BILD reports that Nmecha is valued at around €120 million (£103m) by Dortmund, a figure that may prove challenging for United, despite their valuation being closer to €100m (£86m). Newcastle United have reportedly withdrawn from the race due to the high asking price.
Nmecha, 25, came through the Manchester City academy before moving to Wolfsburg and then Dortmund. He has impressed in the Bundesliga and at the recent World Cup, making him a desirable target for several top clubs. United are also in talks to sign West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes, with discussions now at a formal stage. These moves suggest a proactive summer transfer window for United as they look to build a competitive squad for the upcoming season.
