Hoffenheim agreed on a transfer fee with Shamrock Rovers for Michael Noonan before the Manchester United-linked striker rejected the chance to move his career to the Bundesliga.
Manchester United’s business in January led to the loanee list growing, with the likes of James Scanlon joining League Two outfit Swindon Town until the end of the season.
That means United’s board decided to wait until the summer to strengthen the squad.
It remains to be seen who will be the head coach in the summer, but there will be United fans who think Michael Carrick could have done with an addition or two – even on loan – to bolster the team’s chances of securing a Champions League spot.
United are expected to invest heavily in the midfield department, but Ineos have also prioritised moves for young players with potential to grow.
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That has been evident with deals involving Ayden Heaven, Leny Yoro and Patrick Dorgu.
It’s likely to continue in the summer with United being linked with several young prospects.
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Shamrock Rovers striker Michael Noonan caught United’s attention at the U17 World Cup before Christmas, but the teenager was on the verge of joining Hoffenheim during the weekend.
A quick U-turn could open the door for United to make a move for Noonan later in 2026.
Shamrock Rovers striker Michael Noonan with his hood up
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Michael Noonan staying at Shamrock Rovers
Noonan had been the subject of intense transfer interest ahead of deadline day.
The Republic of Ireland U21 striker looked set to join Hoffenheim when the first part of the deal, an initial fee of £1.5 million, was agreed between the German club and Shamrock Rovers.
United In Focus now understands that Noonan rejected the deal ahead of deadline day, even though those close to the player considered it a great offer.
A deal with Hoffenheim never got the green light from the player, but it doesn’t mean a future move to the Bundesliga outfit can be completely ruled out.
That means Noonan has snubbed Hoffenheim to remain at Rovers until the summer.
Noonan would have been expected to make his transition at Hoffenheim through the U21 side, so they are now viewing him as an immediate addition for Christian Ilzer’s first team.
It remains to be seen if United will come into play now that they have more time to track Noonan at Shamrock Rovers.
Hoffenheim made three bids for the striker, who is attracting interest from multiple clubs across Europe, but he cannot move to the UK until July when he turns 18.
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What did Shamrock Rovers’ manager say about Michael Noonan’s future?
Shamrock Rovers boss Stephen Bradley spoke confidently about his chances of keeping Noonan ahead of deadline day.
Bradley left Noonan on the bench when his side lost 1-0 against Derry City in the President’s Cup on Saturday night.
Rovers are now focusing on the start of the League of Ireland season when they face Dundalk on Friday night.
“I’d imagine he’ll be here against Dundalk,” Bradley said, as quoted by The Irish Sun.
“He hasn’t been to Germany. There are 48 hours and things happen quick, don’t they?
“But the reason I didn’t bring him on is he missed a bit of training. The last week he didn’t do any of the heavy work because he had a little knock.
“He’d be annoyed at me now because he wanted to get on the pitch.”
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