Manchester United youth prospect Hannibal Mejbri looks set to move away from the Red Devils on loan for the 2022/23 season, with a number of championship clubs queuing up for the Tunisian’s signature.
One of the main positives of Manchester United’s 2022 pre-season tour is the chances being given to young players by manager Erik Ten Hag.
Youngsters like Zidane Iqbal, Charlie Savage, Facundo Pellstri and Amad Diallo have all been given platforms to express themselves in United’s games in Thailand and Australia.
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Tunisian midfielder Hannibal Mejbri has also been given his chance in the United squad after catching the eye of the new Red Devils’ manager.
The young midfielder memorably introduced himself to the United faithful last season when Manchester United took on Liverpool at Anfield, with Hannibal’s tenacity standing out as one of the only positives of the match.
Hannibal featured in United’s win against Crystal Palace last Tuesday and again today in the 2-2 draw against Steve Gerrard’s Aston Villa.
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In the stormy conditions at the Optus Stadium, Hannibal once again showed the trademark aggression and intensity that has landed him in his fair share of arguments with those on the receiving end of his ruthless tackles.
Through these inclusions in Manchester United’s recent tour games it is clear that Hannibal is highly regarded by those around the squad and has been ear-marked as one to watch for United’s future.
However, in an attempt to accelerate the young midfielder’s development United look to be searching for a temporary club for Hannibal where he can gain valuable first-team minutes.
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According to Sky Sports, Manchester United are actively exploring loan options for the Tunisian youngster who “look set to join a championship club” with Birmingham, West Brom, Millwall and Middlesbrough all interested in the signing.
Alongside the interest from several English clubs, there is reportedly interest in Hannibal from abroad with Braga and two clubs in Spain also keen on the academy player.
Clubs vying for Hannibal’s signature in this transfer window will be hoping that he can show off his wide-ranging talents if they secure his services.
The power and technical ability that he possesses are among what make Hannibal stand out from the crowd and make him such an exciting prospect.
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Hannibal has also shown his versatility in recent matches, with the Tunisian midfielder playing in a deeper role against Crystal Palace and occupying a significantly more advanced role in Perth against the Villans.
Sky Sports also report that Manchester United have been happy with Mejbri’s pre-season training and matches and see him as a bright prospect for the future.
In a transfer window where all the focus has been on Manchester United bringing in midfield reinforcements, it is also important to recognise the talent within the clubs youth ranks with Hannibal certainly looking like a future midfield stalwart for the Red Devils.
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A loan deal for Hannibal looks to be the best thing for his development as given the promise he has shown so far on the United Tour, and the suspected lack of first-team opportunities in the new season, it will be key for him to get first team minutes and continue his much-anticipated development.
Topics: Manchester United, Manchester United Transfer News & Rumours, Erik Ten Hag, EFL Championship, Transfers
Matthew O'Hara