Man Utd exit imminent 'as player in Italy' leaving Erik ten Hag to rue gamble

Manchester United are expected to offload several fringe stars this summer.

Omari Forson

Omari Forson is reportedly set to join Monza (Image: Getty)

Omari Forson is reportedly set to join Monza imminently after opting to leave Manchester United as a free agent at the end of last season.

The attacking star came through the Red Devils’ academy ranks and was rewarded for his resilience over the years with several appearances throughout the campaign.

However, Forson was unwilling to commit his long-term future to United and instead decided to leave the club rather than penning a bumper contract extension with his boyhood side.

The versatile youngster was linked with a host of clubs after he became available, with Crystal Palace and Newcastle among the English outfits said to have been keen to secure his signature.

Forson has decided to head to Italy though, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that the 19-year-old is set to sign a contract until 2028 with Monza. The prospect of a ‘new experience’ is said to have enticed the playmaker into making the switch, as well as more regular opportunities.

Forson made four Premier League appearances for United last season, starting one match and registering one assist during that time. Erik ten Hag regularly sang the praises of the forward whilst he broke into his plans, especially after he made his full senior debut against Fulham.

Erik ten Hag

Erik ten Hag put plenty of faith in Forson last season (Image: Getty)

Speaking after the match, Ten Hag said: “He had some good actions. He was reliable in defending and had some good actions in possession. I saw, for his first time, he did well. He deserves the position.

“Lately, he’s performing very well, over the last half year he’s worked very hard, showed his progression.”

Facundo Pellistri

Facundo Pellistri joined Granada on loan in January (Image: Getty)

Forson’s performances earned him a spot on the cusp of the first team, though his inclusions did come at the expense of some other talented players. The teenager moved above Facundo Pellistri in the pecking order at Theatre of Dreams, which may have been a mistake in hindsight as the latter was forced to head to the La Liga to ensure that his progress was not hindered.

The Uruguayan was allowed to leave the Red Devils on loan in January after struggling for minutes at the Theatre of Dreams, signing for Granada. The 22-year-old made 15 league appearances for the Spanish outfit following his move, and it remains to be seen whether he is willing to return to United or opts to seek a permanent move elsewhere due to Ten Hag putting his trust in alternative options.

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