Man United win race to sign defender after he was rejected by Arsenal and Spurs
Briefly

Man United win race to sign defender after he was rejected by Arsenal and Spurs
"Manchester United have completed the signing of 13-year-old defensive prospect Socrates, a highly rated youngster who has captured the attention of scouts across the country following his standout performances at Elite London Academy. The move marks another major step in United's renewed commitment to developing elite young talent under the direction of INEOS and football director Jason Wilcox. Born and raised in London, Socrates' path to Old Trafford has been anything but straightforward."
"The young centre-back endured rejected trials at Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and Crystal Palace, setbacks that would have discouraged many players his age. Instead, they became the foundation of his determination. His time at Elite London Academy, one of the most respected youth setups in the capital, provided the perfect environment to refine his game and mature both technically and mentally."
"Initially starting as a winger, Socrates was gradually converted into a centre-back by his academy coaches, who recognised his exceptional reading of the game, composure under pressure, and ability to play progressive passes out from the back. Socrates impressed United's scouts during a series of trial sessions earlier this year. His leadership qualities and calmness in possession stood out and Man United made their move to add the player to their youth setup."
Manchester United completed the signing of 13-year-old centre-back Socrates from Elite London Academy, reinforcing a renewed focus on elite youth development under INEOS and football director Jason Wilcox. Born and raised in London, the player overcame rejected trials at Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace before thriving at Elite London Academy. Coaches converted him from winger to centre-back, highlighting his game-reading, composure and progressive passing. United scouts monitored him through trial sessions, noted his leadership and calmness, and moved quickly to secure his signature while fending off Premier League interest. The player will relocate to Manchester and join a top-performing school to balance education and development.
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