Released Manchester United striker joins Nottingham Forest

Former Manchester United academy product Manni Norkett has completed a move to Nottingham Forest.

The 18-year-old was released by the Reds in the summer and returns to his hometown club after more than 40 appearances for United’s academy teams. Norkett, who initially came through Forest’s youth system, enjoyed a brief loan spell at non-league Gainsborough Trinity between December 2021 and January 2022, but failed to make a senior United debut.

He made his maiden appearance for United’s Under-21s against Sunderland in the EFL Trophy in October 2021 before netting nine times for the Under-18 Premier League last season. He also scored against Crystal Palace in December’s FA Youth Cup win.

A statement from United said: “The Academy always supports our graduates and celebrates their success after leaving the club. We would like to wish Manni the very best of luck at Forest, and hope to come across him in Premier League 2 next season.”

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Norkett - who had a trial at Leicester in April - is one of three academy signings for Forest, joining alongside Harry Griffiths and Will Brook. Chris McGuane, Forest's assistant academy manager, said: “We are delighted to welcome Harry, Manni and Will to the club at such an exciting time.

"Each of them bring their own qualities and experience which we hope to add to an already very strong group as we continue to look to significantly enhance our academy provision.”

Earlier this month, United announced that Phil Jones, Axel Tuanzebe, Ethan Galbraith, Di’Shon Bernard, Eric Hanbury and Charlie Wellens were to be released this summer. Meanwhile, David de Gea becomes a free agent on Saturday having yet to agree a