Sheffield Wednesday eyeing Man United academy’s soon-to-be free agent Charlie McNeill | OneFootball

Manchester United academy graduate Charlie McNeill is attracting serious interest from Championship club Sheffield Wednesday as per latest reports.

According to The Championship Chat Podcast, the 20-year-old, who is soon to become a free agent after his contract ends in June, is a serious target for the Owls as they prepare for a new season in the second division after their great escape last time out.

They are scouring the free agent market to reinforce their squad and are eyeing a permanent move for the former Manchester City U18 star.

“We understand that Sheffield Wednesday are firmly in the race to sign former Manchester United striker Charlie McNeill.

McNeill linked with Sheffield Wednesday

“The 20-year-old’s contract at Old Trafford is up this month and could join the Owls permanently this summer.”

McNeill was touted as one of the gems of the academy and was tipped to play an important role in the first team moving forward after his exploits in United’s FA Youth Cup triumph.

Erik ten Hag even handed the youngster his first team debut alongside Cristiano Ronaldo in the Europa League in the Dutchman’s first season and was named on the bench for another game but did not make the matchday squad in any subsequent game.

The former England U16 international was sent out on loan to Newport County in League Two in a bid to hasten his development with a view to helping him breakthrough into the first team.

He scored twice and registered one assists in 13 starts and earned a loan move to Stevenage in League One last season but the temporary stint went horribly wrong.

Disappointing end to promising youth career

McNeill scored on his debut but then found chances hard to come by and eventually was recalled by United in January after only three appearances for the Boro.

He primarily played for the U21s upon his return, and scored twice and registered an assist as well before defeat at the hands of Arsenal in the PL2 playoffs.

United opted not to hand the youngster a new deal and the player who had famously scored over 600 goals at youth level is now set to become a free agent with the striker penning an emotional note upon learning that United would not be keeping him any longer.

Still, a Championship move would suit McNeill who looks like he needs time and patience to make the grade. He certainly has the skillset but maybe a less competitive environment could suit him.

Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.