Man City 'close' to signing 'talented' Man Utd defender Harrison Parker, Fabrizio Romano confirms

Manchester City are closing in on a deal for 'talented' Manchester United defender Harrison Parker, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Parker, 16, has been on United's books since 2021 when he joined from Arsenal’s youth academy and has since caught the eye of a number of clubs.

But it is local rivals Manchester City who have emerged as frontrunners to sign the Englishman.

Romano broke the news on Twitter, confirming that an "agreement was close", despite United's best efforts to keep him.

"Manchester City are close to reaching an agreement with Manchester United for top talented CB (16) Harrison Parker," tweeted Romano.

"City have beaten four top clubs to the signing — agreement is close despite Man Utd offering highest youth deal to keep Parker."

United signed two of City’s players last month in the shape of Jack and Tyler Fletcher, with City eager for revenge by signing the highly-rated Parker.

Parker made one appearance for the Red Devils in the U-18 Premier League last season and could be set to have played for Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City's academy all before the age of 17.

Academy football coach, Saul Isaksson-Hurst, who has worked with Arsenal, Tottenham and Chelsea was asked to help Harrison improve his technical skills and control.

“Harrison came to me as a U12 without and confidence on the ball his dad asked me to supplement the excellent work he got at his club with some world class ball mastery," Isaksson-Hurst told PDA Football after Harrison signed for United.

"He’s now U15s and one of the most technically gifted Centre Backs in the country…hard work pays off!”