As Manchester United’s search for a lethal goalscorer continues, one potential candidate is heading out of the door at Old Trafford.
Early promise
Hugill was snapped up by United from Sunderland in January 2020 despite fierce competition and was viewed at the time as one of the most promising 16 year olds in the country.
Initially, it looked like £330,000 well spent as the deadly predator continued at United where he had left off at his old club, scoring 16 goals in 27 games, 10 in 18 for the U21s and six in five for the U18s.
In his first full season with the United academy, Hugill netted 15 times in 31 games – not quite as prolific, but a decent return in a season littered with injury. He was again lethal in the U18s, scoring 12 in 16, but struggled in the higher age group, with just one in eight.
After a flying start to 2022/23 at U21 level, Hugill was loaned out to Altrincham. All looked good when he scored on his debut, but that proved to be the only goal of his seven games for the Robins.
It was a similar story in 2023/24. He was unstoppable in the Premier League 2 for the U21s, scoring seven in nine, but a six-month loan at Burton Albion saw the lanky youngster net just once in 18 games.
Last season’s two loans at Wigan and Carlisle also saw Hugill struggle, as he netted just seven times in 35 games. The fact that he dropped down from League One to League Two without managing to find his scoring boots was particularly disappointing
Crucial season ahead
With just one year remaining on his United contract, the Durham man now has to prove he can score goals at a senior level.
He will have his chance at newly promoted League Two side, Barnet.
The season-long loan was officially confirmed by United on the club website.
With a physique and style reminiscent of England’s Peter Crouch, United have been patient with the youngster, acknowledging the growing pains involved. The predatory instinct he showed at a younger age is something that cannot be taught, the question has always been whether he can develop mentally and physically in order to compete at a senior level.
Now 21 years of age, he will be hoping to finally make his mark and reward United for their faith and persistence.
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Red Billy
Red Billy is the managing editor of The Peoples Person, author of three books and totally obsessed with football’s transfer market. Billy still insists Matteo Darmian and Alex Telles could have made it at United given half a chance.
