Stockport County officially sign Manchester United midfielder
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Stockport County’s focus on developing young talent continues to shape the club’s long-term project as they secure promising prospects from across the English game.
The League side have been active in strengthening their academy pathway, offering opportunities to players aiming to establish themselves in senior football.
Manchester United’s youth system has once again been part of that development pipeline, with one of their former academy players now taking the next step in his career.
Stockport County officially sign James Bailey
Midfield talent James Bailey has made a permanent move away from Old Trafford after progressing through United’s youth ranks, as the club announced on their website.
James Bailey has officially committed his future to Stockport County, signing a two-year professional deal at Edgeley Park following his departure from Manchester United.
The midfielder had already agreed terms on his move, with his switch set to be formally completed on July 1, 2026, after leaving United on a permanent basis.
Bailey’s exit had been anticipated for some time, with CentreDevils exclusively reporting earlier in the year that he would leave Manchester United at the end of the 2025/26 campaign.
The move was later confirmed when he was included in United’s retained and released list, bringing an end to his time at the club’s academy setup.
Stockport County Academy Director Mike Jeffries praised Bailey’s development since arriving from Manchester United and highlighted his progress within the youth system.
He said, “James has worked incredibly hard throughout his time in the Academy since joining from Manchester United and fully deserves this opportunity.
“He has shown a fantastic attitude, a strong commitment to his development, and a willingness to learn every day.
“Signing a first professional contract is an important milestone, but it’s also the beginning of the next stage of his journey.
“We’re pleased with the progress he has made and believe he has the qualities, both on and off the pitch, to continue developing within the football club.
“Everyone in the Academy is proud of James and the dedication he has shown to reach this point.
“We look forward to supporting him as he takes the next steps in his career and continues to push for further opportunities.”
James Bailey originally joined Manchester United’s youth setup after moving from Burnley at Under-14 level in 2021 before signing scholarship terms in 2024.
He developed through the academy ranks as a central midfielder, earning recognition for his performances before ultimately making the decision to move on in search of senior football opportunities.
Now at Stockport County, Bailey begins the next stage of his career with a professional contract running until 2028, marking a significant step in his transition from academy football into the senior game.
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