Laird seals permanent transfer

The 21-year-old came through the Reds' Academy and made two first-team appearances in the 2019/20 season, against Astana and AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League.

He has successfully used the loan system to further his experience of senior football and spent last term with Queens Park Rangers.

The attacking right-back has also enjoyed stints at MK Dons, Swansea City and Bournemouth, and has represented England at Under-17, Under-18 and Under-19 level.

In making 33 appearances in total for QPR, he proved his worth in the Championship, and scored his first senior goal - in last August's 3-1 victory against Hull City at Loftus Road.

Now the youngster will be joining Birmingham, who have a good relationship with United after taking Hannibal on loan for the 2022/23 campaign.

Tahith Chong, a former team-mate of Laird's, is also a key figure for the Midlanders, who are managed by John Eustace. 

Ethan could make his Blues debut against one of his former clubs, Swansea, in the Championship season opener, with a maiden home game lined up with Leeds United at St Andrew's.

All at United would like to pass on our sincere best wishes to Ethan and we'll be tracking his progress at his new club after successfully coming through our Academy and always being a popular figure at Carrington.