Man United midfielder bids emotional farewell ahead of rumoured Newcastle United move

Manchester United midfielder Ethan Galbraith has confirmed his Old Trafford exit in a heartfelt social media post.

The 21-year-old’s contract expires this summer and the Red Devils have passed up on the option of triggering a 12-month extension. They felt there was little chance of recouping a significant fee on Galbraith, whose wages would have increased with an extension.

Galbraith joined Man United from Linfield aged 15 and progressed through the youth ranks. His only senior appearance to date came off the bench in a 2-1 Europa League loss to Astana in November 2019.

“After 6 years, my time has come to an end with this magnificent club @manchesterunited,” Galbraith posted on Instagram. “I want to thank the club , coaching staff & players for helping me become a better player, a better person and for making me feel at home.

“My earliest ambition as a boy was to become a professional footballer and I’m forever grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity and support to fulfill that dream. It’s been a privilege & I feel very fortunate to have been able to represent the club. “I step into the next chapter of my career a more mature well-rounded person and I’m excited for what’s next...”

According to our sister title ManchesterWorld, Newcastle United are among those interested in the Northern Ireland youngster. It’s likely he’d be sent out on loan next season if he were to move to St James’ Park.

Galbraith spent the 2022-23 on loan at League Two side Salford City, where he has scored four times in 38 appearances. The player also spent the 2021/22 campaign on loan at Doncaster Rovers, where he made 36 appearances.

Championship clubs Stoke City and Sunderland, plus League One outfit Derby County are also monitoring his situation, though no concrete offers have emerged yet. It’s understood Galbraith favours a move that will see him play regular first-team football at this stage of his career.

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