KEY POINTS

  • Manchester United signs Arsenal defender Harrison Parker
  • Parker is looking forward to beginning a new chapter in his career with Manchester United
  • The Red Devils have earlier completed the transfer of Ethan Ennis from Liverpool

Manchester United has added an Arsenal starlet into its youth set-up.

Arsenal defender Harrison Parker has signed with Manchester United, putting an end to his nine-year spell with the Gunners.

Parker’s move to Old Trafford was first reported by exclusively by Rising Ballers earlier this month after impressing Manchester United coaches and scouts in the summer.

The report said the 16-year-old “had all the top clubs in England chasing him,” but it was Manchester United’s recruitment team that is set to secure a “big signing.”

Last week, Parker hinted that he has already joined the Red Devils by changing his Instagram bio from “football for Arsenal to footballer for Manchester United,” United In Focus reported.

On Monday, the “excited” Parker confirmed on Instagram that he has “officially signed” for Manchester United.

“Excited to have officially signed for [Manchester United]. The new chapter starts and the hard work continues,” Parker wrote.

Parker is said to have headed straight into the club’s Under-15 squad shortly after his arrival.

Before embarking on a new journey with Manchester United, Parker didn’t forget to bid farewell to his boyhood club Arsenal.

“After 9 brilliant years at Arsenal I have finally decided to end my journey with them as it’s time for a new chapter,” the defender wrote. “I am grateful for all the time and experiences they have given me to help me become the player I am today.”

“Those memories will last forever,” he continued. “[I] Also like to say a thank you to all the staff and coaches that have helped me on my journey so far forever grateful.”

Manchester United’s scouting team has been actively pursuing young talents from its English Premier League rivals.

Last month, the Red Devils completed the transfer of Ethan Ennis from Liverpool’s youth team.

Ennis has caught the attention of Manchester United by impressing in Liverpool’s youth ranks and was very appreciated in the club.

In fact, an earlier report said that the Reds even tried to keep the midfielder at Anfield. However, the teenage sensation decided not to sign a fresh set of terms with the Merseyside club.

Like Parker, Ennis also broke the news on his Instagram account ahead of Manchester United’s official announcement of his transfer.

“I am delighted to announce that I have signed for [Manchester United],” the former Liverpool Under-18 star wrote. “Grateful for this opportunity, can’t wait to get started.”

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer the manager / head coach of Manchester United during the pre season friendly between Queens Park Rangers and Manchester United at The Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium on July 24, 2021 in London, England. Photo by James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images