Rotherham United officially sign recently released Manchester United defender

Manchester United released six players earlier this year as Michael Carrick and INEOS continued reshaping the squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

Casemiro, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia were the three senior names allowed to leave Old Trafford.

The club also made decisions at academy level.

James Bailey, Malachi Sharpe and Sonny Aljofree also left after progressing through the youth system.

Those departures were part of a wider reset at United.

The club tried to create pathways for emerging talent while also trimming the size of the squad.

For young players leaving Carrington, the priority quickly becomes finding a club capable of offering regular senior football.

One of those recently released defenders has now officially secured his next move after impressing during a trial period.

Former United defender secures permanent move

Rotherham United have officially confirmed the signing of former Manchester United defender Sonny Aljofree on a two-year contract, with the option of a further season.

The Millers announced the deal on their official website after Aljofree impressed head coach Alex Bruce and his staff during pre-season.

The 21-year-old had been training with Rotherham following his release from United and featured as a trialist in friendlies, including the 1-1 draw against Matlock Town.

He was used both at centre-back and right-back, with his versatility helping him earn a permanent contract.

Aljofree spent 14 years with Manchester United after joining the academy at a young age.

He was part of the squad that won the FA Youth Cup in 2021/22 and later captained United at Under-21 level.

The defender also gained senior experience through loan spells with Altrincham, Accrington Stanley and Notts County.

He made 25 League Two appearances for Accrington during the 2024/25 campaign, scoring three goals.

Rotherham have handed Aljofree the number 14 shirt, with the defender becoming their tenth signing of the summer.

After such a long association with Manchester United, he now has the chance to establish himself permanently in senior football and begin a completely new chapter of his career.