Manchester United sign young goalkeeper from Fleetwood Town

There have been plenty of incomings and outgoings in the goalkeeping department at Man United over the past few months

Manchester United have signed 12-year-old goalkeeper Billy Hartley from Fleetwood Town.

The young shot-stopper had been at Fleetwood's academy since the age of eight, moving into his role between the posts halfway through a four-year spell after showing quality in that area of the pitch.

The League One club have confirmed that they will receive a 'significant training compensation fee' from United for Hartley, who will join up with the academy set-up.

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Hartley becomes the fourth goalkeeper to join United over the last few months and is by far the youngest. The club have overseen a major overhaul in that area of the pitch, following the departure of four shot-stoppers.

David de Gea was released upon the expiration of his contract at the start of summer, calling time on a 12-year spell at the club, while Dean Henderson joined Crystal Palace in a deal worth £20million plus add-ons. Young goalkeepers Nathan Bishop and Matej Kovar also left.

To fill the gaps, United spent £47.2million on Andre Onana, bringing in the former Inter Milan man as Ten Hag's first-choice option. They also signed Altay Bayindir from Fenerbahce for £4.3m, with the Turkish international coming in as back-up.

United also signed free agent Kie Plumley last week, following his release from Oxford United. The 20-year-old has joined up with the club's youth sides and is expected to offer a back-up option across the age groups.