The Res Devils have managed to sign sensation Millen Baars after the youngster snubbed deals from the two London clubs.
Before joining United, Chelsea and Arsenal were interested in signing the talented winger. His father even confirmed there were offers from Italy and Portugal, but the player’s desire to play for the Red Devils saw him make a switch to United
The 16-year-old reportedly agreed to the switch in October and now the player’s father, Stefan, has confirmed the news.
Baars, who was a winger and captain of Ajax’s Under-17 side before leaving the club, was invited for tours around Chelsea, United and Arsenal, but called off a visit to the North London side after being convinced to move to Old Trafford.
“We have had talks with Ajax that were between Millen and the club,” said Stefan “But it was certainly nothing shocking, he was even appointed captain this season of the B1.”
“Ajax is a great club with a very good youth, but they can unfortunately not cope so very well. You saw in the past with other youth players who now play at other clubs. But Millen was ready for a different challenge.” added Stefan.
“He played nine seasons in Amsterdam and he has always had the dream to play football in England. There was interest from Italy, Portugal and England, but when he was at Chelsea and United to look, he knew he wanted to play in Manchester. He did not even see Arsenal, his choice was made.” claimed the youngsters father.
It is understood Baars is awaiting international clearance but has already featured for United’s U16s. The youngster will join hands with United legend and current academy head Nicky Butt and continue his development at Manchester.
Academy head Nicky Butt said earlier this year the club would make a number of academy signings.
“We’re short on a few numbers in the different age groups and it’s something we need to address,” Butt said last season. “Something we are addressing and something we will hopefully get over the line in the next few weeks, in time for next season.
“It’s the same as any other club. We all want to attract the best young players in Europe, at whatever age, and we’re exactly the same. We want to attract the best players we can from all over Europe and bring them into what we feel is already a great set-up.”