Manchester United have officially confirmed the signing of French teenage striker Enzo Kana-Biyik on a free transfer following his departure from Ligue 1 side Le Havre. The 18-year-old forward, who recently turned professional, becomes the latest addition to United’s growing list of youthful acquisitions under the INEOS-led recruitment strategy.
Kana-Biyik, a France youth international, made headlines last season with Le Havre’s Under-19 side, scoring nine goals in 18 appearances. Though he was named on the bench for senior fixtures against Lille and Stade Briochin, he didn’t feature on the pitch. Despite that, his potential didn’t go unnoticed across Europe. Manchester United reportedly beat off strong competition from clubs like Chelsea, Monaco, and Paris Saint-Germain—where Kana-Biyik’s brothers play in the academy ranks—to secure his signature.
Kana-Biyik Transfer: Key Details
- Full Name: Enzo Kana-Biyik
- Age: 18
- Nationality: French
- Position: Striker / Forward
- Previous Club: Le Havre (France)
- New Club: Manchester United
- Transfer Type: Free Transfer
- Contract Duration: 5 years + 1-year extension option
- Contract Expiry: June 2030 (with option until 2031)
- Loan Club: Lausanne-Sport (Switzerland)
- Loan Duration: 2025/26 Season
- 2024/25 Stats: 9 Goals in 18 Games (U19)
- First Team Bench: Lille & Stade Briochin (No appearances)
Following the completion of the transfer, Manchester United wasted no time in outlining a clear development plan for the teenager. The club immediately loaned Kana-Biyik to Swiss Super League side Lausanne-Sport for the 2025/26 season to gain first-team experience. Lausanne-Sport, which also falls under the INEOS ownership group, is expected to provide Kana-Biyik with regular playing time and exposure to top-tier European football.
The Red Devils have been actively revamping their recruitment policy, with a renewed focus on signing young talents with long-term potential rather than older, high-profile stars. This strategy is already showing progress with previous signings like Ayden Heaven, Sekou Kone, and Chido Obi. The acquisition of Kana-Biyik aligns perfectly with this youth-focused direction.
According to renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano, Kana-Biyik has signed a five-year contract with Manchester United, including an option for a sixth year. This means the young striker is tied to Old Trafford until at least 2030, with potential to stay until 2031.
The move marks Manchester United’s third signing of the summer, following the £62.5 million acquisition of Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha from Wolves and the arrival of young talent Diego Leon. More additions are expected as United continue to reshape the squad under the guidance of INEOS and manager Erik ten Hag, who has fully backed the club’s investment in young players.
Also Read:
The long-term development strategy also allows for players like Kana-Biyik to grow without immediate pressure. By spending a full season in the Swiss Super League, the teenage striker will have the opportunity to adapt to senior football in a competitive environment while remaining closely monitored by United’s technical staff.
While United fans won’t see Kana-Biyik in action at Old Trafford this season, the club’s management is confident the player will return from his loan spell more prepared for the demands of Premier League football. The loan move also opens up possibilities for mid-season evaluation and potential recall if required.
The signing also symbolizes a significant victory over rivals like PSG and Chelsea, both of whom had shown serious interest in acquiring the young French striker. PSG, in particular, were keen given the player’s family ties to their youth academy. However, Kana-Biyik chose to begin his senior journey at Manchester United, signaling trust in the club’s project and long-term vision.
With Enzo Kana-Biyik officially on board, Manchester United are continuing their shift towards sustainable squad building. The young striker may not yet be a household name, but with the right guidance and competitive exposure, he could become a key figure at Old Trafford in the years to come.
FAQs
Q1: What position does Enzo Kana-Biyik play?
A: Enzo Kana-Biyik plays primarily as a striker or attacking forward, known for his pace, finishing, and movement in the box.
Q2: How long is Enzo Kana-Biyik’s contract with Manchester United?
A: Enzo Kana-Biyik has signed a five-year contract with Manchester United, with an option to extend for an additional sixth year, potentially keeping him at the club until 2031.
Q3: Why did Manchester United loan out Enzo Kana-Biyik immediately?
A: Manchester United loaned Enzo Kana-Biyik to Swiss side Lausanne-Sport for the 2025/26 season to gain valuable first-team experience and aid in his development.
Q4: How did Enzo Kana-Biyik perform last season?
A: In the 2024/25 season, Enzo Kana-Biyik scored 9 goals in 18 appearances for Le Havre’s Under-19 team and was on the bench for two senior games.