Overview

• Hardy announced his departure from Derby on Instagram, thanking the club and describing his move as a new chapter.
• He is expected to begin with Manchester United’s U18s, who are coached by former midfielder Darren Fletcher.
• The 16-year-old has five England U16 caps and progressed early at Derby, featuring on the bench at 14 and debuting for the U18s at 15.
• Category-one academy rules allow scholars to move during the season, enabling the switch after top-flight ratification.
• His addition aligns with changes in United’s goalkeeping group, with Andre Onana on loan to Trabzonspor, recent signing Senne Lammens yet to feature, and Tom Heaton’s contract nearing its end.