Manchester United have confirmed the loan departure of another promising academy talent.
Man United have [officially announced](http://Wheatley heads out on loan https://www.manutd.com/en/news/ethan-wheatley-heads-out-on-loan) that Ethan Wheatley will spend the 2026-27 season on loan at Lincoln City.
This will be his fourth loan stint away from Old Trafford after previously spending time with Walsall, Northampton Town and Bradford City.
His spells at Walsall and Bradford proved frustrating, although he enjoyed a far more productive period with Northampton Town.
Wheatley scored three goals and provided two assists in 25 appearances for the Cobblers.
The young striker was the 250th academy graduate to make his debut for the senior United team.
Despite making four first-team appearances, Wheatley is still waiting to make a meaningful impact at the highest level.
The forward also featured against Wrexham during pre-season under head coach Michael Carrick.
Sending him on another loan is the right decision but United may need to reassess his situation when the January window opens.
If he struggles to secure regular minutes at Lincoln, the Red Devils should consider recalling him and finding a more suitable destination.
Keeping Wheatley with the Under-21s would do little for his development at this stage, with the striker clearly needing consistent senior football.
Everton also showed interest in signing him this summer, showing the reputation he has built at the youth level.
The Red Devils are expected to announce several more academy departures before the transfer window closes.
With just over a week remaining, the Red Devils could also sanction temporary or permanent exits for Toby Collyer, Dan Gore and Jack Moorhouse.
Stats from Fotmob.com
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