Manchester United are warning youngsters around the world not to be taken in by fraudsters promising trials with the Premiership giants.

Website postings are offering non-existent trials for aspiring young footballers, with the promise that if they impress they will be flown to England for more trials and be awarded a 'compulsory six-year contract' with United's youth team. The catch is that families have to pay up-front 'registration fees'.

A United spokeswoman told the Mail on Sunday: "This is deplorable behaviour. We would encourage any parent who receives an approach purporting to be from Manchester United to examine it very carefully. The club never asks for money to sign young players. If in doubt, parents should contact the club."