Former Barcelona academy star Marc Jurado has signed a long-term contract with Manchester United.
The 17-year-old, who plays in the U18 Premier League, has committed his future to the Red Devils.
He moved to England last year after rejecting a three-year professional contract at the Nou Camp.
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Revealing the news on social media, Jurado said: “Delighted to have signed my first professional contract with @manchesterunited.
“Also I would like to thank all my family, my friends and everyone for all their support.”
The full-back, who can operate on either side of defence, has become an important part of United’s youth setup in recent months.
He could win the U18 Premier League title in his first season. United are five points ahead of second-placed Liverpool with two games remaining.
Jurado is the latest United youngster to sign a professional contract.
The likes of Teden Mengi, Shola Shoretire and Hannibal Mejbri have all done so this year.
The Red Devils are putting plenty of focus on their academy and youth prospects. Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is known to give young players a chance, including defenders Brandon Williams and Axel Tuanzebe.
They spent £37million to sign Amad Diallo from Atalanta, who could become a future star at Old Trafford.
Facundo Pellistri is another talented winger that they’ve invested in. The Uruguayan signed from Penarol and is currently on loan at Alaves, where he has played eight times.
Solskjaer has previously stated his ambition to give young players a chance. Speaking to MUFC TV, he said: “As Sir Matt [Busby] once said, if they’re good enough, they’re old enough. We are built on that tradition.
“We need young players coming through. It’s important for the Academy and the players in the Academy to know that, yes, I am looking to progress players through.”
The likes of Jurado, Diallo and Pellistri will be encouraged by the current first team. It includes notable academy graduates Marcus Rashford and Paul Pogba.
Keeper Dean Henderson recently returned from a two-year loan spell with Sheffield United and looks set to replace David De Gea as number one. He’s already spent eight years at the club.
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