Exclusive: Manchester United attacking midfielder to leave club imminently

Manchester United are heading towards an important summer window, with changes expected throughout the squad.

There is a focus on trimming the pathway, ensuring the very best are kept at the club.

Many young players are now facing uncertain futures as a result, with opportunities becoming harder to come by at Carrington.

Another major decision has now been made.

CentreDevils can exclusively reveal that James Bailey will leave Manchester United at the end of the 2025/26 season, with a source close to the player relaying the news to CentreDevils.

The young midfielder, who was part of United’s academy setup since joining from Burnley in 2021, is now preparing for the next step in his career away from Old Trafford.

James Bailey has spent the last few weeks on trial at Stockport County, as he looks to secure a move that will offer him a clearer pathway into senior football.

Just seven seasons ago, the club were competing in the sixth-tier National League North, but have since climbed rapidly following their 2019 promotion.

Stockport are firmly in the promotion conversation this season, with them just shy of two points from 4th place Bradford City and three points off 3rd place Bolton as they sit 5th in the table.

James Bailey has begun to make an impression during his time there thus far, scoring for their Under-18s in a recent win over Preston North End in the EFL Youth Alliance League.

This season, Bailey has featured regularly for United’s Under-18s, making 16 appearances and scoring once.

Operating primarily as a central midfielder, but also capable of playing on the right wing, he has been a reliable option within Darren Fletcher’s youth setup.

James Bailey will be hoping to turn the potential he has into a senior career by making the switch away from Old Trafford.