Linfield have announced the signing of former Manchester United academy prospect Max Haygarth.
The 20-year-old forward has joined the Irish Premiership champions in a short-term deal to the end of the season.
Haygarth - who was previously on Brentford's books - linked up with the Blues before Christmas and has impressed in his initial training sessions.
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"Max is a Manchester lad who came through the Manchester United academy and then proceeded to play for Brentford but he’s been a free agent for several months," David Healy told Linfield's website.
"He trained with us for a few days before Christmas and he made a very positive impression during that time with us.
"I’m really pleased that he’s come back and agreed to join us until the season end. While it’s a short time signing at this stage, he’s joining us with a view to extending the move at the end of the season.
"Certainly, our hope is that he comes in and does well and enjoys his time here, so that in the summer we can make the signing more long term in duration.
"Max can play in different positions in the attacking areas of a team and he comes from a really excellent football background, having progressed through the set ups at Manchester United and Brentford.
"What really pleases me is he’s really excited to be joining us and he’s looking forward to competing for a place in our squad, as we aim to challenge for honours over the course of the closing months of the season.
Healy added: "He’s a quality signing and I want to thank our recruitment and development manager Willie McKeown for his assistance in getting this deal concluded.
"I know our supporters will make him feel welcome at the club and we will continue to monitor the transfer window situation, to see if there are other possibilities that we want and are able to progress, to strengthen the squad.”
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