Manchester United wonderkid Jayce Fitzgerald has been one of the academy’s standout midfielders for years, but now he needs to take a step up.
The midfield is a highly debated position at Manchester United, with improvements in 2026 likely. However, within the academy, Ruben Amorim might already have future solutions.
One highly rated midfielder is Jim Thwaites. He has been impressive in the academy, and United have high hopes for Thwaites in his career.
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However, right now Sekou Kone is more ready to step up at United, while Jayce Fitzgerald might actually be the midfielder closest to the first team in terms of current quality.
Photo by Poppy Townson – MUFC/Manchester United via Getty ImagesJayce Fitzgerald wanted by League One clubs on loan
Ruud van Nistelrooy was a massive fan of Fitzgerald during his three-game interim spell in charge of Manchester United.
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Despite Old Trafford being introduced to Fitzgerald, he hasn’t been seen in the first team since, despite increasingly impressive form in the academy.
Now, the Daily Mail have reported that a loan for the 18-year-old in January is likely.
The report explains that Fitzgerald is one of the top players in the U21 squad right now, but has reached the point where he needs more of a test, namely against senior opposition.
With the teenager available, there are now a handful of League One clubs are now putting together their pitches to take Fitzgerald on a loan.
Manchester United have a future Premier League midfielder in Jayce Fitzgerald
Next summer, there is the possibility that Manchester United will have to spend big on two new midfielders, but such a massive outlay on one position might not be needed.
Fitzgerald easily has the potential to be playing for United, and a loan could be vital in helping him reach these levels.
Six months on loan in League One could have a huge effect on Fitzgerald’s development, and it could be the making of him.
Fitzgerald has all the raw qualities needed to succeed in Premier League football, and he simply needs exposure to a higher level of football to improve.