As the summer transfer window unfolds, Manchester United is making changes to both the academy and the first team. Cristian Orozco has joined United from Fortaleza following a deal agreed last autumn, with more arrivals anticipated in the coming weeks.
Departures are also on the horizon. One notable exit is Darlington Osuchukwu, a highly rated goalkeeper who joined the academy at age 13 from the Spanish youth club Gazte Berriak.
Athletic Bilbao closing on a deal to sign Darlington Osuchukwu
Osuchukwu is highly regarded within United as a young shot-stopper with significant potential. However, at 16 years old, he has been linked with a move away from the club this summer. The path to United’s first team is increasingly challenging, especially with Senne Lammens establishing himself as the first-choice keeper.
Earlier this year, Osuchukwu was linked with a number of European clubs, including Barcelona and Eintracht Frankfurt, but this summer he appears poised to join another club.
Reports indicate that Athletic Bilbao is close to signing Osuchukwu from United, after the Basque club had been pursuing him actively since late 2025. The move would mark a notable first for Athletic Bilbao in recruiting from Manchester United, aligning with their cantera policy of primarily recruiting locally trained players.
If Osuchukwu had stayed, he would likely have featured for United’s under-18s next season. Instead, he is set to continue his development in Spain. The Spain U17 international was born in Murcia, fitting Athletic Bilbao’s preference for players connected to the Basque region, though he is not Basque-born.
Darlington Osuchukwu’s message after leaving Manchester United
Osuchukwu shared reflections on social media, posting a series of photographs from his time at United and expressing gratitude for the opportunity. He wrote about the decision to move on after four impactful years, noting that the family considered it carefully and that they believe it is the right moment to embark on a new chapter.
He thanked everyone at the club—coaches, staff, and especially teammates—for their support, describing the experiences and friendships formed as life-changing. He emphasized that representing Manchester United has been a privilege and that the club will always hold a special place in his heart, leaving with gratitude, respect, and cherished memories.
