The agent of new Manchester United signing Bjorn Hardley has revealed he was snapped up only after serious consideration.

Hardley, 16, arrives at United from NAC Breda.

And the midfielder's agent, Orlando Engelaar, told BN DeStem: "Björn started today with Manchester United and starts with the Under-18 team.

“They started following him intensively from September and October. A total of seven scouts have seen Björn at work, including the main scout of Manchester United. It is a well-considered step, he has long been followed by Manchester United, they really have a plan for him.

"At United there is a lot of faith in him.

"If all goes well, he can eventually start training with the Under-23s."