United Women player set to make history with record-breaking new contract – report

Manchester United player Layla Drury is set to sign a historic contract to keep her at the club for the foreseeable future. History maker Drury etched her name into United’s history books when she made her senior debut for the club against Burnley in January. She made her first-team bow at 16 years and 220 days, breaking a record that was previously held by Lauren James, which had been standing since United’s first match after reformation in 2018. James made her United debut at just 16 years and 324 days old, featuring in the 1-0 away victory over Liverpool. Even more impressive is that Drury found the back of the net against Burnley. The forward got on the end of a ball from Hinata Miyazawa and coolly slotted past goalkeeper Kirstie Levell with a sublime finish. In doing so, Drury also became United’s youngest-ever goalscorer. She finished the 2025/26 season with seven appearances to her name across all competitions. According to The Guardian, Drury is poised to make more history, becoming the youngest player to sign a professional contract with United. Excl. Guardian understands Layla Drury is set to sign her first pro. contract with Manchester United. The 17-year-old became #MUwomen’s youngest player and scorer in January, aged 16 at the time, and is set to be with the first-team squad next term. https://t.co/OV1rnk1LOK — Tom Garry (@TomJGarry) July 2, 2026 Drury update Tom Garry reveals that the teenager has agreed terms over a new deal that will keep her at United. The report states, “She has played at youth international level for both Wales and England, switching her allegiance to England in February.” “It is understood United’s plan is that Drury will spend next season with United’s first team on a full-time basis.” She will be the first player to put pen to paper on a professional United contract before her 18th birthday. It’s said that the progress Drury has demonstrated is viewed as a success story for United’s academy. Marc Skinner’s side are committed to promoting homegrown talent and building a self-sustainable women’s team as the sport continues to grow. Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Latest Top Stories… Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!