Fletcher switched back to First-Team Coach under Erik ten Hag and has continued to assist on sessions and offer guidance to players and analysts under Ruben Amorim.
Although Fletcher has not yet been formally appointed to his new role, the move has been agreed and is expected to be officially announced soon.
As U18s Head Coach, Fletcher would lead a team for the first time, helping his long-term ambition of becoming a Manager at senior level. The Scot had been reluctant to take charge of the team while his sons Jack and Tyler were still involved, but they have now progressed to the U21s.
Lawrence left United last month at the end of last season after almost four years to “seek a new challenge elsewhere in the game.” Under his stewardship, United had won the U18s Premier League and Premier League Cup in 2023/24.
United are looking for several other Academy staff. Academy Director Nick Cox is leaving to become Technical Director at Everton and U21s Assistant David Hughes has departed to become Manager of Newport County.