Southampton are set to lose 15-year-old defender Harley Emsden James to Manchester United, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.
Southampton are gearing up for life in the Championship once again following a swift relegation from the Premier League. After a disappointing 2024/25 season that saw them collect just 12 points from 38 games, the Saints must now turn the page and look ahead with renewed focus.
With highly-rated manager Will Still now in charge, the Hampshire side will aim to challenge at the top of the table, despite the likelihood of losing several key players this summer. Many of Southampton’s first team squad are linked with moves away, but now one of the young stars looks set to depart.
Southampton boss Will Still
Image courtesy of: PETER CZIBORRA/REUTERS.
According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, via X, young Southampton defender Harley Emsden James is set to join Manchester United. The 15-year-old is viewed as a major talent for the future by the Red Devils.
The Premier League has approved the move for the young defender. Manchester United have been tracking Emsden James for 12-14 months, according to Romano.
A separate report from Pete O’Rourke has claimed that United have beaten several other Premier League sides for his signature. Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham, Newcastle and Aston Villa were all keen on the 15-year-old.
A shame for the Saints
Southampton have long held a strong reputation for developing young talent. Numerous academy graduates are making their mark across the EFL and Premier League.
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Emsden James could have been the next talent to emerge from the Saints’ renowned production line. The likes of Adam Lallana, James Ward-Prowse, Nathaniel Clyne and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have all been Premier League regulars in recent years.
southampton, Southampton starlet set for Manchester United transfer
Image courtesy of: JOHN SIBLEY/REUTERS.
Following Southampton’s relegation to the Championship, this season might have offered Emsden James a real opportunity for first-team minutes at such a young age. Under the guidance of Will Still, St Mary’s could have been the ideal environment for his growth and progression.
Worrying times for Southampton?
As said earlier, the Saints are known for their academy setup. However, it seems teams have caught wind and are swooping in before Southampton can profit.
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Emsden James is the second of Southampton’s young stars reportedly set to leave this summer. Italian midfielder Leo Rodella will leave the club after turning down a pro deal on the South Coast.
Unfortunately, there is not much the Saints can do to stop this from happening. They will hope no more of their academy stars follow suit and move on this summer.
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