Manchester City defender holds talks with Manchester United

The rivalry behind Manchester United and Manchester City is usually defined by first-team clashes, title races and derby drama.

But behind the scenes, the battle between the two clubs often stretches far deeper – right down to academy recruitment.

In recent years, both Manchester clubs have invested heavily in youth development, with Carrington and City Football Academy becoming two of the most competitive pathways in English football.

United, particularly under the current structure, have shown a clear desire to strengthen their youth ranks and compete aggressively for emerging talent.

With the focus firmly on long-term squad building – and following multiple academy reshuffles over the past 18 months including the departure of Rhys Bennett, who was at the academy for 16 years – United have been active in conversations with some of the country’s most promising teenagers.

That competitive edge now appears to extend to a young defender currently on City’s books.

According to The Talent Hunter on X, 15-year-old defender Kasen Brown has held talks with Manchester United ahead of his imminent departure from Manchester City at the end of the season.

Brown, regarded as one of the most talented U16 Left-Backs in the country, is attacking widespread interest.

Alongside United, Brighton, Nottingham Forest and Leeds United – who recently signed Edward Ibrovic-Fletcher from Manchester United – are understood to have held discussions, while several other Premier League clubs monitoring his situation.

The teenager has also received his first international call-up for England U16s this week – further underlining his growing reputation.

There is no suggestion of an agreement at this stage, but Manchester United’s involvement signals their intent to compete strongly for elite youth prospects, even when those players are emerging from across the city divide.

With academy recruitment becoming increasingly strategic, this is certainly a name to keep an eye on.