Highly-rated Man United youngster Ennis leaves 'with key clause' in academy exodus

Manchester United youngster Ethan Ennis is the latest academy start to leave but at least the Reds have included an important clause.

The 21-year-old forward has signed a three-year contract with League Two club Stockport after failing to feature for United during pre-season. He moves for an undisclosed fee.

As with several of United's recent academy departures, the Reds have been careful to have a say in his future if he goes on to do well at Stockport.

United have included a 50 per cent sell-on clause, a buy-back option and matching rights, meaning they could benefit significantly if Ennis goes on to enjoy a successful career elsewhere.

Ennis confirmed his departure in an emotional Instagram message.

"After a rollercoaster five years the time has come to move on from Manchester United," he wrote.

"I'll always be grateful for the memories, the people and the experiences that have shaped me both on and off the pitch.

"It's been an honour to wear the shirt and represent this club."

Ennis joined United in 2021 after previously rejecting a scholarship offer from Liverpool and attracting interest from several clubs, including Chelsea.

His development at Carrington was disrupted by a serious ACL injury during his second season, ruling him out for around a year.

He eventually returned to action and gained further senior experience through loan spells with Doncaster Rovers and Fleetwood Town.

Ennis spent last season at Fleetwood, scoring six goals.

He now moves to Stockport, where he will link up with former United academy midfielder James Bailey.

Ennis' departure is another example of United's changing approach to academy sales under INEOS.

Rather than simply allowing young players to leave for modest fees, the club are increasingly retaining significant future value through buy-back clauses, sell-ons and matching rights.

The strategy was evident in the recent sale of goalkeeper Radek Vitek to Middlesbrough, which included a buy-back clause and 35 per cent sell-on.

United's academy continues to produce more players than can realistically be accommodated in the first-team squad.

For Ennis, the move to Stockport provides an opportunity to finally establish himself in senior football.

And United have made sure they could still benefit if he goes on to fulfil the potential that first attracted them five years ago.