United hold talks for arch rival’s brilliant academy jewel about to make England debut

Manchester United’s recruitment work never truly stops, even while the Premier League schedule rolls on.

Clubs across the division are moving earlier than ever to secure the next wave of talent, with academy moves now a constant feature of the modern game.

Manchester City’s youth system has been one of the most productive in England, regularly producing players who go on to feature at senior level.

This also means their most coveted prospects can attract attention quickly, especially when exits begin to look likely.

Youth move claim

According to Football Insider, United have held talks over a move for City academy left-back Kasen Brown.

The report says the 15-year-old is expected to leave the Etihad at the end of the season, with an exit described as imminent.

Football Insider add that Brighton, Nottingham Forest and Leeds United are also credited with interest in the youngster.

The outlet describe Brown as “one of the most promising left-backs in England” after impressing in City’s academy and featuring for their Under-16s.

Football Insider also highlight Brown’s involvement at last summer’s Future Star Cup in Shanghai, where he made two appearances and scored once as City finished fourth.

Young Lions call-up

The report adds that Brown has received his first call-up to the England Under-16s squad.

The Under-16s are due to face Spain in a friendly on Monday 23 February 2026, which could offer the defender an early chance to make his international debut.

A post shared on X by The England Academy account also billed Brown as one of the standout Under-16 left-backs currently in the country.

A scouting post circulating on X has also highlighted Brown’s profile, describing him as a technically strong, pacey left-back who is attracting significant academy interest following his reported decision to leave City.

Kasen Brown | 15 | LB | Manchester City⁣
⁣

—Technical Proficiency⁣
—Ball-Carrying⁣
—Ball Retention⁣
—Defensive Awareness⁣
—Pace⁣
⁣

—one of the most sought-after academy defenders in the country following his decision to leave the Etihad⁣
—technically elite LB… pic.twitter.com/3b6vbrzteB

— 宝石 (@baoball) February 14, 2026

City have developed a habit of producing elite talent, with Phil Foden and Cole Palmer both graduating from their set-up.

However, Football Insider note that others have moved on earlier in their careers, pointing to Morgan Rogers and Jadon Sancho as examples.

For United, the attraction is clear if the report is accurate: a chance to secure a highly-rated left-back before he takes his next developmental step elsewhere.

With several clubs said to be in the mix and no fee figures mentioned, the situation remains one to monitor rather than a deal close to completion.

The post Kasen Brown: Man United hold talks for bright Man City prospect appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.