Michael Noonan caught Manchester United’s attention towards the end of 2025, but the talented Irish teenager is now on the verge of joining Bundesliga outfit TSG Hoffenheim.
Manchester United are always on the lookout for fresh talent.
There has been more emphasis put on acquiring young talent since Sir Jim Ratcliffe became co-owner because there was no real strategy after the Glazer takeover, especially when Sir Alex Ferguson retired as manager.
That has been evident with deals for players such as Ayden Heaven, Leny Yoro, Chido Obi, Patrick Dorgu and Benjamin Sesko.
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United have managed to mix up those signings with experienced players, like Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha.
Senne Lammens is another young player brought in last summer, but he plays like a goalkeeper beyond his years, so he can often be mistaken for a more experienced player.
United are expected to continue their quest to sign the best young players in the world in 2026.
Michael Noonan in a Shamrock Rovers shirt
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Man Utd-linked Michael Noonan set to sign for TSG Hoffenheim
The Bundesliga may be one of the top leagues in Europe, but it has also become a platform for emerging talent to establish themselves on one of the biggest stages.
Although Jadon Sancho is now known as a flop after his mega-money move to United from Borussia Dortmund, the England international used the Bundesliga to develop his game at the senior level. That is where he caught the attention of bigger clubs elsewhere.
The same applies to Jude Bellingham and now a young striker from the Republic of Ireland will hope to follow suit.
According to the Irish Examiner, TSG Hoffenheim have had an improved third bid of an upfront £1.5 million (€1.8m) for teenage striker Michael Noonan, accepted by Shamrock Rovers.
All that is needed to complete the deal is the 17-year-old’s approval and agreement of personal terms.
Noonan has only been with Shamrock Rovers for 12 months, after joining them in a shock move from Dublin rivals St Patrick’s Athletic.
After an impressive U17 World Cup campaign for the Republic of Ireland, Noonan caught United’s eye.
Noonan was one of two Irish players who caught United’s eye during the tournament, after Vinnie Leonard enjoyed a memorable campaign.
Even though United haven’t signed Noonan and he’s on the verge of joining Hoffenheim, the Red Devils will likely continue to track the young Irish forward’s progress when he moves to Germany.
Everyone will be keen to see how Noonan transitions to life in the Bundesliga.
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Kobbie Mainoo during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium in 2026 in London, England.
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Man Utd target Vinnie Leonard wanted by Brighton
Leonard, who is also on United’s radar, is the subject of transfer interest from Premier League outfit Brighton.
A report from the Irish Examiner last week suggested that Brighton had met with Dundalk FC over a proposed deal for Leonard, who could cost an upfront fee of under £1m.
Celtic and Crystal Palace have been linked with a move for Leonard.
Only time will tell if United will make a move for Leonard after watching him closely at the U17 World Cup.
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