UNITED IN HUNT TO SIGN STARLET AT OWLS

ENGLAND Under-20 star George Hirst could be tempted by a summer move to United.

The teenager, who is the son of former Sheffield Wednesday fans’ favourite David, is out of contract at the end of the season and the Reds are said to be favourites for his signature.

The 19-year-old (pictured) has not been selected for firstteam football this season after refusing to sign a new deal and some Wednesday supporters are angry the club have not tried harder to keep him.

Wednesday manager Jos Luhukay has admitted the player could leave this summer and appeared to confirm United’s interest.

“It’s a decision George will have to make himself,” Luhukay told BBC Radio Sheffield.

“I think it’s really difficult when a club as big as Manchester United has an interest in him to say no.

“George must decide how he sees his future and I respect that. It is a decision for George. A good decision or not a good decision, I cannot answer that.”

The Owls have turned down several offers for Hirst, who helped England Under-20s win the Toulon Cup in France last summer, while Leicester and Everton have been linked with the player. Hirst, who progressed through Wednesday’s academy, rejected a new long-term deal at the end of last year, which the club claimed would have made him the best-paid player for his age in their history.

United special: Pages 49-51