Manchester United youngster James Scanlon has signed his first professional contract with the club.
Scanlon, 17, was born and raised in the Midlands but has already made his international debut for Gibraltar, who he qualifies to represent through his mother.
The versatile forward has enjoyed an excellent season for United’s Under-18s and played a key role as Adam Lawrence’s young side claimed a stunning treble.
Scanlon contributed eight goals and three assists in 12 appearances for the U18s on their way to league glory and also made appearances for the Under-21s.
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United have awarded Scanlon with his first professional deal as reward for his continued progress in the academy and the youngster will now attempt to break into the first-team.
Scanlon has played as a central attacking midfielder and on the left and right-wing this season. He also featured in all six of United’s UEFA Youth League fixtures.
When Scanlon made his international debut for Gibraltar at just 17, he said: “It’s a proud evening for me but a disappointing result. My goals from here are to just keep progressing with my game and to have a big impact in whichever team I play. I think that’s a good aim for me.”
FIFA’s eligibility rules allow players to switch international allegiances provided they have played no more than three senior competitive matches before turning 21, which means Scanlon could still switch to represent England in the future should he wish.
Scanlon is the latest talent to sign his first professional deal at United, following confirmation that Harry Amass, Jack and Tyler Fletcher and Shea Lacey had been given contracts.
He started out in Derby County’s youth system and joined United’s academy in 2023.