Manchester United starlet Ethan Laird seals permanent transfer to Birmingham City
Right-back Ethan Laird has obtained a long-term deal with Birmingham City, according to a statement from Manchester United.
According to The Athletic, United will receive a price of roughly £750,000 and a strong sell-on clause for authorising his departure.
His contract recently received a one-year extension thanks to the Red Devils. Otherwise, he might have left this summer as a free agent.
It feels fantastic, he said. This is the time when I get to show off who I am and not really care about anything else, so I feel like it’s vital to me right now.
I’m eager to get started because this is a new step on a new journey.
At the age of 10, Laird joined United and advanced through the levels. At the Under-17, Under-18, and Under-19 levels, he also competed for England.
The 21-year-old played 33 times, including 30 starts, for Queens Park Rangers during the previous season.
Laird had little chance of making the United first squad.
In 2019, the United graduate played for the Red Devils in just two senior matches—against FC Astana and AZ Alkmaar.
Given that Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka were ahead of him in the hierarchy, it would have been challenging for him to receive regular minutes.
Another player who can come in at right-back if necessary is Brandon Williams.
In January, there were concerns over Wan-Bissaka’s future. The former Crystal Palace defender, nevertheless, had to fight for a spot in the squad.
At right-back, Erik ten Hag has two capable options, obstructing Laird’s route.
It makes sense for both parties if he leaves. At Birmingham City, the young player could get the crucial playing time he needs to advance his abilities.
Like he did when he was a member of Manchester United’s development system, he will link up with Tahith Chong along the right flank.
Although Laird has a lot of promise, United currently has superior options.