Oxford United are poised to sign Manchester United teenager Sean McGinty in time for tonight’s pre-season friendly against West Ham.
The defender, who turns 19 next month, can play at left back or left centre back and is expected to join on an initial six-month deal.
McGinty’s only experience in senior football came on loan at Morecambe last season.
The former Charlton trainee made four starts for the Shrimps in npower League Two before dislocating his shoulder in March.
If the paperwork goes through in time, the teenager will make his debut in the U’s opening pre-season game tonight, in front of a predicted crowd of about 5,000 at the Kassam Stadium.
McGinty’s versatility is key for United, who need cover defensively.
Liam Davis (groin), Michael Duberry (neck) and Andy Whing (groin) all look set to be on the sidelines for several weeks.
United boss Chris Wilder will also be without Peter Leven (shoulder) and Harry Worley (ankle) tonight.
Everyone else in the squad will get a run-out against the Hammers, with several triallists likely to be drafted in to provide the option of switching the entire team at half-time.
Wilder said: “We have to make sure the right minutes get under their belts.
“Possibly it will be two teams of 11, so we’re going to maybe bring a couple of players in to have a look at.”
The game will put United, who have not had any warm-up games against non-league opposition, in at the deep end.
Wilder, who played under West Ham manager Sam Allardyce at Notts County 15 years ago, is limiting his expectations accordingly.
He said: “We’ll be playing quality opposition, there’s no doubt about it. They had a fantastic season last year.
“It will take time, but it would be good just to get on the pitch and see them against top-class opposition.”