Manchester United Plans Professional Contract for Teen Defender Kukonki

Manchester United is set to sign promising 17-year-old defender Godwill Kukonki to his first professional contract after multiple call-ups to the senior matchday squads under manager Ruben Amorim last season. Kukonki, who has been with the club since age five, impressed during United's post-season tour of Asia and has been regularly included on the bench for Premier League and Europa League matches, though he has yet to make his senior competitive debut. Standing at 6ft 5ins, Kukonki's versatility as a left-footed player capable of playing both left-back and center-back fits well with Amorim's tactical system, and he is seen as a potential rotational option in domestic cup competitions. Despite competition for first-team spots, including the arrival of Ayden Heaven and Lisandro Martinez’s status as starter, club sources believe Kukonki has a bright future, with plans for him to remain at United rather than going out on loan. Additionally, Kukonki is expected to represent England at the Under-17 World Cup in Qatar later this year. This contract renewal reflects Manchester United's commitment to developing their academy talents and integrating them into the first team.