Saints to get seven-figure fee as academy talent Emsden-James makes Man United switch _(Image: Southampton FC)_
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.
SAINTS academy talent Harley Emsden-James is set to join Manchester United's youth set up in a deal worth a minimum of £1million.
In addition to the seven-figure fee, Saints will retain a 20 per cent sell-on clause, and the _Daily Echo_ understand all parties are pleased with the deal.
England youth international Emsden-James, 16, played up an age group for the under-18s on two occasions this season and is considered a bright prospect at centre-back.
Former Saints director Jason Wilcox, who was recently promoted to director of football at Manchester United, is considered to have been a key man behind the signing.
While losing Emsden-James may appear a blow, Saints have received a strong fee and could benefit further if he develops as anticipated.
READ: ['Great choices' - Ugochukwu makes Saints owner admission about promotion](https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25230796.great-choices---ugochukwu-makes-saints-owner-admission-promotion/?rel=cl_mra)
Director of group talent strategy and former youth chief Andy Goldie is pleased with the direction in which the academy is heading following a successful season.
"I don't think there's many clubs in the world where you think of the academy first when you think of the football club itself," he told the _Daily Echo_.
"I think Benfica are one, Ajax are one, Dinamo Zagreb are one, these types of clubs. Southampton, for me, are also one of them.
"We've lost our way in recent years but this year has reignited that. We've built momentum this year, and we're on our way to becoming one of the most attractive and productive academies again."