Manchester United are reportedly nearing an agreement to sign 16-year-old James Overy, who currently plays non-league football in Devon. The club is believed to have outmaneuvered three Premier League rivals—West Ham, Everton, and Leicester City—to secure the talented young player.
Overy, who is eligible to represent both England and Australia internationally, previously played for Perth Glory in the A-League. He left the Australian side last year following his family’s relocation to England.
Since moving to England, Overy has been playing for Newton Abbot Spurs, a team in the ninth tier of English football. His performance at just 15 years old in a pre-season friendly against West Ham drew the attention of several Premier League clubs.
According to the Manchester Evening News, Manchester United has offered Overy a scholarship deal, aiming to bring him into their academy. The 16-year-old is expected to accept United’s offer, despite interest from other Premier League teams including West Ham, Everton, and newly promoted Leicester City.
Manchester United’s academy is renowned globally for its excellence and rigorous standards, with scouts consistently seeking young talent capable of advancing to the first team. Offering Overy a scholarship deal is a significant step towards potentially securing a professional contract, which he can sign at age 17
West Ham appears set to miss out on this promising talent, as Overy seems poised to join Manchester United’s esteemed academy.
