Manchester United have confirmed that talented centre-back Sonny Aljofree has completed a season-long loan move to League Two side Notts County (via the club’s official website).
Aljofree, who has captained Man United’s U18 and U21 sides, played in League Two last season with Accrington Stanley.
He made 25 league appearances for Accrington, scored three goals, and won two Man of the Match awards.
Notts County have already lost two centre-backs this summer, Kyle Cameron and Robbie Cundy, which has led them to explore the market for a new central defender.
The club has now signed Aljofree, beating several other suitors to his signature.
Director of Football Roberto Gagliardi has expressed his confidence in the 20-year-old defender’s qualities.
He told nottscountyfc.co.uk : “Sonny has all the traits of a modern-day defender – balancing an aggressive playing style with the ability to distribute the ball from the back.
“He’s capable of playing anywhere across the defensive line, mainly being deployed in a back four for Manchester United but often on the right of a back three during his impressive loan at Accrington.
“Sonny’s maturity is reflected in the leadership roles he’s been given and the high esteem he’s held in by United. Combined with the fact he’s the son of former Plymouth defender Hasney Aljofree, he has a very strong footballing pedigree.
“We faced strong competition from a number of League One clubs to sign him and we look forward to supporting his continued development.”
Aljofree joined Man United in the summer of 2021. He was part of the FA Youth Cup-winning team in the 2021/2022 campaign alongside Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.
He has yet to debut for the first team but featured in pre-season fixtures against Wrexham in 2023 and Rosenborg in 2024.
The Plymouth-born central defender was handed a new contract by United at the start of last season, underlining the club’s faith in him.
Meanwhile, Aljofree’s former youth team-mate and fellow FA Youth Cup winner, Sam Murray, has joined League Two outfit Carlisle United following his release by Man United.