BURTON Albion has completed the signing of highly-rated striker Joe Hugill from Manchester United on a loan deal until the end of the season.
The Brewers have fought off competition from a host of EFL clubs to sign the 20-year-old, who will go straight into the Albion squad for Monday night's clash away at Derby County.
The Durham-born youngster arrived at United's academy in 2020 from Sunderland, after having previously spent a season at Newcastle United. He flourished in Manchester and was quickly incorporated into the under-23 side, scoring two goals on his u-23s debut before becoming only the second Red Devils to score four against rivals Liverpool in one game.
After finishing on 10 goals in 11 starts for the Under-23s, and 6 in 6 at Under-18s level, he was rewarded with promotion to training with the first-team squad in the 2021 close season. He also featured in United's FA Youth Cup Final triumph over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford that season.
Manager Martin Paterson said: "We're really happy to get the loan signing of Joe over the line.
"A lot of hard work has been put in behind the scenes by Gary and the team to make this move happen, fighting off a lot of competition from other clubs to sign him on loan.
"I briefly worked with him at Barnsley when he came in on work experience and you could see his potential then. We want to thank Manchester United for trusting us with the development of a player they have high hopes for.
"I pride myself on developing strikers and I think Joe can be a really good addition to us."
On signing, Hugill said: "It's a great opportunity for me. As my first football league loan I'm really excited for it and looking forward to getting going.
"I can't wait to experience men's first-team action and getting as much experience and games under my belt and hopefully score some goals. I'm really looking forward to meeting the lads and getting going.
"Burton is a family club and I'm very family oriented myself which played a huge part in me coming here. I know a couple of the boys who are already here and they've been really positive about the place. I spoke to Mark Helm as soon as there was interest and straight away he said what a good club it is and I'm buzzing to get going."
Joe will wear the number 44. Welcome to the Brewers, Joe!