Manchester United Academy Set to Lose Highly Rated Youngster

Manchester United Academy Set for 'Significant Loss'

Reports are coming out that Manchester United are set to lose a huge prospect from their academy as striker Louie Bradbury looks all but set for a move to Stoke City on a permament.

Reasons for the move appear to focus around concerns over his pathway at the club and route to eventual first team football.

🚨 Louie Bradbury set to join Stoke City permanently from United & deal expected to be done today. U18 striker only signed new #MUFC professional contract last month but concerns over pathway, with Fletchers, Shea Lacey & others as examples contributed to decision. Highly-rated… pic.twitter.com/UPTmbLe4pP

— MUFC Academy (@mufcacademy91) September 1, 2026

Bradbury had only signed a new contract to extend his time in the United academy last month however the opportunity for a more direct route to first team football at Stoke has changed his mind, internally his departure is considered a 'significant loss'.

Last season Bradbury was able to bag 2 goals in the 5 appearances he made for the under 21's and racked up 11 goals in appearances for the Under 18's.