Manchester United poach Harvey Busby from Newcastle to lead academy scouting

Manchester United have appointed Harvey Busby as lead national scout for their Under-14 to Under-18 academy age groups, with the recruiter making the switch from Newcastle United after being headhunted by the Old Trafford club.

The vacancy arose following an internal promotion at United’s Carrington training base. Connor Hunter, who had previously held the national scout role covering those age groups, was elevated to head of academy recruitment — opening the position that Busby has now filled. Busby has officially begun work at the club.

During his time at Newcastle, Busby was credited with helping the Magpies secure talented young prospects ahead of competing Premier League clubs. He will now work closely with Hunter to channel that expertise into attracting the best domestic talent to United’s academy setup.

The appointment carries added significance given the constraints United and other English clubs operate under in the post-Brexit landscape. Restrictions on signing international youth players have narrowed recruitment to British shores, placing greater weight on the quality of domestic scouting networks.

United have shown ambition in the academy market in recent windows. Striker Chido Obi arrived from Arsenal in the summer of 2024 in a move widely regarded as a coup within the industry, alongside James Overy and Samuel Lusale. Goalkeeper Charlie Hardy was subsequently signed from Derby in December. Obi made eight first-team appearances last season and is expected to audition for senior involvement under Michael Carrick during pre-season this summer.