Blackpool have made a swift start to the summer window after a mediocre season last time around. The Tangerines have already signed two players this window as they look to mount a promotion push next season.
Fraser Horsfall and Michael Ihiekwe have both joined on free transfers, adding some much-needed experience at the back. Steve Bruce is far from done yet though, and he is now looking to add in forward areas.
blackpool, Stockport County, Blackpool challenge Scottish side for Manchester United starlet
Image courtesy of: CARL RECINE/REUTERS.
According to Football Insider, Blackpool are hoping to bring in Manchester United youngster Ethan Williams on loan this summer. Williams is set to leave on loan once again after spending the second half of last year with Cheltenham Town.
Blackpool will need to see off interest from Stockport County and Hibernian for his signature though. Williams is very highly rated at United, but they feel he needs at least one more loan before he makes any inroads at Old Trafford.
The 19-year-old has been Manchester United’s top scorer in the UEFA Youth League in both of the last two seasons. However, he managed just four goal contributions in 17 games with Cheltenham.
Bruce connections to help out at Blackpool?
On the face of it, Stockport County may be a favourable loan for Williams, given how close it is to Manchester. While Blackpool is not too far away, Stockport is considerably closer.
However, with Bruce at the helm, Blackpool stand every chance of securing his services. He is a legend at Old Trafford and no doubt will have contacts within the club that he could get a favour from to bring in Williams.
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blackpool, Stockport County, Blackpool challenge Scottish side for Manchester United starlet
Image courtesy of: MATTHEW CHILDS/REUTERS.
Williams has plenty to prove and could end up being a very astute pickup for Blackpool. If they get the deal done, you’d imagine Bruce will have had a big role in it.
Can he make the step up?
Williams did not exactly set the world alight in League Two this year. However, he did show signs of promise and clearly has some ability.
But with a League One or Scottish Premiership loan looking likely, will he be able to make the step up? At Blackpool, he may stand a very good chance given the experience they have to help him make the jump.
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Whoever gets Williams this year will certainly be getting a talented player. Making sure that player shows himself though, is a completely different story.