Man United academy forward who left on deadline day just netted a hat-trick against Man City on his debut | OneFootball

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INEOS encountered plenty of problems when trying to move Manchester United first team stars on, so they instead let go of numerous academy graduates this summer.

The likes of Toby Collyer, Louis Jackson, James Overy, James Scanlon, and Habeeb Ogunneye were all sold, and a few deals were justified.

But it came as a surprise to see the Red Devils part ways with Louie Bradbury, considering he had signed his first professional deal less than three weeks ago.

The Wales Under-19 international was on fire last season, scoring 10 times in all competitions, including twice for the Under-21s, despite being only 16 at the time.

It was a surprise to see Louie Bradbury leave

The 17-year-old had also got off the mark for Darren Fletcher’s Under-18s this term, netting in the win over Everton.

However, Stoke City must have offered him a clearer pathway to first team football, which led him to jump ship from the 20-time English league champions.

“We are delighted to bring Louie to the club, adding to the crop of exciting strikers we have within the U18s and U21s,” Stoke academy Director Jack Higgins was quoted as saying.

He added: “Louie joins us at a good age to continue his development and thrive in our environment after some brilliant experiences with Manchester United during the past few years.”

Stunning Stoke City debut for Louie Bradbury

Louie Bradbury has already started off in stunning fashion at his new home, scoring a hat-trick for Stoke Under-18s against Manchester City Under-18s in a remarkable game that ended 8-5 to City.

Such an impressive show on debut must have caught senior team manager Mark Robins’ eye. Who knows, a Championship debut could be on the cards very soon.

While no financial details have been divulged, hopefully, United inserted a buyback clause and a hefty sell-on clause to protect themselves in case the young striker explodes at the bet365 Stadium.

United also loaned out two of their most promising strikers in Chido Obi and Ethan Wheatley, and INEOS will be hoping at least one of them can return ready for the first team.