Manchester City's prospective new owner, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al-Nahyan, wants the club's academy to remain a core part of their future.

The Times says Mark Hughes, the City manager, has been given a resounding vote of confidence from Sheikh Mansour's closest aides and ADUG is also keen to invest heavily in youth, not simply high-profile signings.

"Do not forget that the most successful period of Manchester United's recent history was based to a large extent on graduates of their academy," a source said.