Man Utd launch contract talks with ‘powerful’ defender; Amorim said ‘he’s ready’ for first team | OneFootball

Manchester United will soon start negotiating a professional contract with their teenage defender Godwill Kukonki.

The Red Devils are enduring their worst Premier League campaign in decades, but at least they’re taking the opportunity to launch some of their most promising academy products, while resting the regular starters who are solely focused on clinching the Europa League trophy and booking their place in next season’s edition of the Champions League.

Ruben Amorim has already given the likes of Chido Obi-Martin, Harry Amass and Tyler Fredricson their senior debuts.

On the other hand, Kukonki has yet to make an appearance with the first team, although he’s been called up on several occasions, starting from December’s away fixture against Arsenal at the Emirates. He was also part of the squad in both legs against Lyon in the Europa League quarter-final.

Nevertheless, time remains on the young defender’s side. After all, he had only turned 17 in February, and is expected to pen his first professional contract in the coming weeks.

Godwill Kukonki set for Man United contract talks

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According to CentreDevils, Man United are set to launch contract talks with Kukonki who is widely considered one of the most exciting teenagers at the club.

The 17-year-old is an England native of Congolese origins. This season, he has been primarily representing the U18 squad, while also making appearances for the U21 side. All in all, the youngster had 23 outings, contributing with one goal and three assists.

Ruben Amorim is an admirer of Kukonki

Standing at 6’5”, the source describes Kukonki as a defender who boasts a ‘powerful presence’. He has already endeared himself to Ruben Amorim who was left impressed by the youngster on the training ground.

‘He’s 16, but he impressed me a lot, so it’s also a sign to the youth players that they can be here,” said the Portuguese manager back in November.

“If something happened with the first-team, they have to step up and I think he’s ready, he’s very adult to handle the Premier League’s demands.”

It should be noted that Kukonki isn’t the only Man Utd youth product set to earn a professional contract. Fellow 17-year-old Bendito Matato has reportedly penned a deal on Wednesday.