Manchester United’s pre-season preparations are well underway, with manager Ruben Amorim closely monitoring a number of academy stars tipped to push for senior minutes this season.
Following the departure of experienced defenders earlier this summer, the door has opened for several youngsters to stake their claim, with a number already making appearances in Asia during United’s post-season tour.
Amorim has made it clear he wants to refresh the squad with hungry, versatile players—and a select few from United’s academy have taken that message to heart.
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One name regularly mentioned in those internal discussions is that of Godwill Kukonki, a highly-rated teenage centre-back with serious potential.
And now, the 17-year-old defender is set to sign his first professional contract at Manchester United, as per the Manchester Evening News.
United have been working behind the scenes since March to secure Kukonki’s long-term future, and the club have now reached an agreement to tie him down.
Godwill Kukonki, who was born in Stoke-on-Trent, was first named in a senior squad for the Premier League clash against Arsenal in early December, with Amorim highlighting his “impressive maturity” following training sessions.
His involvement with the first team ramped up quickly, travelling to Portman Road for Amorim’s debut match in charge and later being included in the Europa League quarter-final squad to face Lyon.
The left-footed centre-back is already drawing early comparisons to Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol thanks to his build, technical ability and versatility.
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Standing at 6ft 5ins, Kukonki has the physical attributes needed for senior football and is also capable of filling in at left-back when required.
He featured from the bench in United’s post-season games against ASEAN All-Stars and Hong Kong XI, and club staff remain excited about his trajectory.
Kukonki has also represented England at Under-17 level and continues to impress with his leadership and intelligence on the pitch.
United see him as a player who could soon make his competitive debut under Amorim—and his new deal is a major step in that direction.
