Manchester United Prepare to Appoint Newcastle’s Paul Midgley as Head of Academy Recruitment Amid Staff Overhaul at Carrington

Manchester United are reportedly ready to appoint Paul Midgley, currently Newcastle’s head of youth recruitment, to take over the same position at Old Trafford’s academy.

Midgley emerges as the frontrunner after an extensive search, filling the role left vacant by Luke Fedorenko, who is on gardening leave before moving to a new agency role.

Midgley brings a wealth of experience, having previously worked at Manchester City alongside United’s director of football Jason Wilcox and academy chief Stephen Torpey.

Sources suggest he is still weighing the move, and United may face pushback from Newcastle, similar to the hurdles they encountered during the pursuit of Dan Ashworth last year.

Midgley Joins a Reshaped Academy Staff

Midgley will become the latest addition to the Carrington academy after Torpey took charge in September, succeeding Nick Cox, who moved to Everton as technical director.

Several other academy staff have also departed recently, including Under-18s boss Adam Lawrence and Under-21s assistants David Hughes and David Horseman.

Semenyo Transfer Battle Intensifies

On the transfer front, United are reportedly preparing to bid for Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo in January, potentially selling Joshua Zirkzee to fund the deal.

The Reds are now part of a three-way tussle with Manchester City and Chelsea for the 25-year-old, whose £60.5million release clause can be activated until January 10.

Despite competition, United have a track record of snatching players from rivals, with past examples including Cristiano Ronaldo, Alexis Sanchez, Fred, and Harry Maguire.

Semenyo’s potential arrival could be a major boost to United’s attacking options.

Zirkzee Situation Remains Fluid

Zirkzee’s future at United continues to be closely watched.

The Dutch forward has expressed frustration over limited playing time, but with Bruno Fernandes injured and Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo at AFCON, Zirkzee is expected to have a bigger role soon.

Sources say it’s too early to predict a January exit, as he remains part of the squad’s plans while vying for a World Cup spot.

Conor Gallagher Talks Yet to Begin

United have yet to engage Atletico Madrid in discussions for Conor Gallagher, with the Spanish club reportedly preferring a permanent £35m deal over a loan.

Gallagher is among several midfield options under consideration alongside Ruben Neves, Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, Tyler Adams, and Joao Gomes, though many of these options may only be available in the summer.

Bruno Fernandes Eyes Return

Fernandes is recovering from a hamstring injury sustained against Aston Villa, with hopes of returning within a month.

He could even feature in the Manchester derby on January 17.

With other key midfielders unavailable due to AFCON or injury, Mason Mount may be required to fill creative gaps in the squad.

Academy Players Stepping Up

Injuries and fixture congestion have thrust several academy players into the spotlight.

Under-21 captain Jacob Devaney is back in training after a minor leg impact, while Sekou Kone is regaining fitness after a fractured eye socket.

Jim Thwaites, another promising midfielder, is being monitored for knee and ankle issues but remains a potential option for first-team exposure.

Cristian Orozco Set to Join

Colombia’s rising star Cristian Orozco is set to move to United upon turning 18.

The Under-17s captain has already visited Manchester, trained with the Under-18s and Under-21s, and is excited to join a familiar environment at Carrington.

Players Embrace the Christmas Spirit

Amid all the professional focus, players are enjoying festive activities.

Trips to Lapland UK have proven popular, with Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha attending with their families.

Fernandes reportedly joined the general public group rather than seeking special treatment, reflecting the club’s emphasis on grounding players during the holiday period.

Academy Focus and Youth Development

Darren Fletcher is prioritizing player development over results with the Under-18s.

Recent debuts for Charlie Hardy, Jaume Camacho, Harley Emsden-James, JJ Gabriel, and Kai Rooney illustrate the academy’s willingness to give younger players significant opportunities.

Bryan Robson Champions Financial Justice

Off the pitch, Bryan Robson has supported the V11 Foundation, which lobbies for protections against financial abuse targeting current and former players.

Robson’s High Performance Individuals company works alongside the V11 to provide guidance and connect players with financial education experts, ensuring young talents are better equipped for life in football.

United are clearly balancing short-term first-team needs with long-term academy development, while also engaging in broader efforts to safeguard the welfare of players across generations.f

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