Noah Ajayi signs professional contract as Manchester United's next academy striker to watch

Manchester United have secured the future of academy forward Noah Ajayi, with the 6ft 2in teenager signing a professional contract after a quietly impressive debut season in the Under-18s.

Ajayi registered nine goals and one assist across 25 appearances, operating largely in the shadow of JJ Gabriel — the U18 Player of the Season — yet building a consistent and compelling case of his own. His most eye-catching moment came at Selhurst Park in the Premier League Cup final, where he opened the scoring against Crystal Palace with a finish that required him to create space between four defenders before placing the ball low past the goalkeeper. United ultimately lost on penalties after Palace equalised in added time, but Ajayi’s contribution was not lost on those watching.

He also netted a crucial goal against Sunderland in the FA Youth Cup quarter-finals at Old Trafford, picking the ball up near the halfway line, driving forward and finishing from distance in a nervy tie. United reached the Youth Cup final that season before falling short again, but the campaign gave the coaching staff plenty of reasons for optimism about Ajayi’s trajectory.

Academy sources told the Manchester Evening News they were “delighted” to secure his future, with coaches describing him as a gem and a genuine long-term prospect for the first team — not immediately, but as part of a structured development plan.

Observers have drawn comparisons with Marcus Rashford, noting the way Ajayi glides on the left and finishes with a low, driven shot. His physical profile adds another dimension: at 6ft 2in, he already carries the frame to compete in the men’s game, while his acceleration and pace give him the tools to trouble defenders at higher levels.

Gabriel’s prolific form naturally attracted most of the headlines during the U18 season, but Ajayi’s nine-goal return as the less-heralded partner suggests United may have two forwards worth tracking closely as they progress through the academy ranks.