Manchester United snubbed as 'verbal agreement' reached with former Newcastle United forward

Shoretire, born on Tyneside, joined the Red Devils’ academy a decade ago and actually made his senior debut against the Magpies during a Premier League match in February 2021. However, the 20-year-old has made just four additional senior appearances since then, with his last coming over two years ago.

Our sister title ManchesterWorld reported earlier this month that the Red Devils wanted to keep Shoretire, however the player decided to move on pastures new.

And according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Shoretire is joining PAOK.

He posted on X: “Greek side PAOK have reached verbal agreement to sign former Man United talent Shola Shoretire. Despite interest from England, Spain, MLS and Saudi clubs, Shoretire is now expected to travel & sign next week. Shoretire, available as free agent after leaving #MUFC.”

Shola Shoretire’s Newcastle roots

Shoretire grew up in the North East and honed his talent at a number of junior set-ups, Wallsend Boys Club, Hebburn Town and Newcastle City Juniors before moving to Manchester when his parents were offered jobs in the city.

As a kid, Shoretire idolised Alan Shearer, despite being just two when the Newcastle legend retired.

“I was very young when I was in Newcastle," Shoretire said previously. "But the people that I looked up to were my favourite players, Lionel Messi and Ronaldinho. I think I have tried to make my game like theirs, quite technical and a good all-round player.

“But then I think, playing for Newcastle, a bit before my time, but Alan Shearer. He is the legend up there in Newcastle for what he’s done for the club. Hearing his stories and the history of the club, that is what got me into playing football in Newcastle.”

It was perhaps fitting that Shoretire’s senior debut came against Newcastle.

“It was an unbelievable feeling," Shoretire recalled. "Sitting on the bench and just being part of the squad. Then when I was called to come onto the pitch, nothing going through my head. I didn’t know what to think.

“To get my first game against Newcastle, it meant a lot to me because of the journey I have had from Newcastle to Manchester. To be playing against them was really good.”