Man United announced the departure of young centre-back Sonny Aljofree on Thursday, confirming he has joined Notts County.
Sonny Aljofree in training for Manchester United.
Sonny Aljofree has joined Notts County on a season-long loan deal.(Image: Charlotte Tattersall - MUFC/Manchester United via Getty Images.)
Notts County director of football Roberto Gagliardi has revealed the League Two side had to see off "strong competition" from clubs in League One to sign Manchester United defender Sonny Aljofree.
The 20-year-old centre-back finalised a switch to Meadow Lane on Thursday, joining the club on a season-long loan deal.
He is the first player to have left Old Trafford on loan this summer and more are expected to follow in the coming weeks.
The defender, who signed his first professional contract at United in May 2023, spent last season on loan at fellow League Two club Accrington Stanley and made 27 appearances across all competitions, chipping in with three goals.
His performances for the Lancashire outfit did not go unnoticed, with Magpies chief Gagliardi admitting League One sides were keen on signing the United youngster this summer.
Explaining what Aljofree will bring to Meadow Lane, Gagliardi told the Magpies' club website: "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."
The defender has just under a year remaining on his contract at Old Trafford, meaning he will be hoping to use his time at Meadow Lane to good effect.
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