Manchester United are expected to spend money this summer – but their first arrival is already imminent.
Whilst all eyes are on the likes of Jack Grealish, James Maddison and Moussa Dembele, the Red Devils have completed the signing of Norway’s next wonderkid looking to follow in the footsteps of Erling Haaland on the fast-track to stardom.
Last summer, United confirmed they had beaten Liverpool and Everton to the signing of Isak Hansen-Aaroen, at the time only 14.
The teenage attacker has generated a reputation as a rising star in the youth ranks of club side, Tromso, and with Norway’s Under 15s.
He impressed the Red Devils on trial leading to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer snapping him up.
But whilst a deal was put in place, the transfer is not able to go through until August 22, when the teenager turns 16, due to FIFA regulations on players moving overseas.
United were clearly impressed with Hansen-Aaroen, expecting big things despite his age, as they splashed £90,000 and also sent Aidan Barlow to Norway on loan as part of a new partnership with Tromso.
At the time, Tromso sports manager Svein-Morten Johansen said: “We think this is very exciting because we cooperate with a big club and we have already developed a good cooperation, and this has now materialised in that we borrow Barlow.
“It will be interesting to see his level up against our own boys at the same age, but we know we will get a very good player.
“This could be the start of a long-term collaboration that can give us a lot. We already have a very good dialogue.
“It means a lot to us and even though we now get a player, the most important thing is maybe we get close to them and gain new knowledge.”
Speaking before a deal was agreed, Johansen said: “We have had very positive discussions with Manchester United.
“Of course there is a long way to go, but we are working well with Isak’s family about an agreement.
“We are positive that this will be good for all parties.
“In the first instance we are looking at some kind of cooperation agreement, where the goal is to develop the player so that he may end up going over and playing for them.
“Isak has always been a good player, and he is a sensible lad.
“He is good for his age, and although there is a long way to go he has every reason to succeed.”
