Doncaster Rovers in line for ‘significant’ windfall from quartet sold to Manchester United and Leeds United

Doncaster Rovers could receive a healthy financial boost from four former academy prospects who have since signed professional contracts at Manchester United and Leeds United.

Back in March 2023, The Free Press reported that the Red Devils had paid compensation worth six figures to acquire three highly-rated teenage talents from Cantley Park.

These were goalkeeper Zac Watson, midfielder Jariyah Shah and winger Neithan Barbosa.

At the same time, it also emerged that talented winger Logan Watson had made the move to Leeds United for compensation worth six figures as well.

More than three years have passed since the quartet made the move, and the trio, who will all be 18 by the start of next year, still remain on the books at Carrington.

Where are they now?

Harrogate-born Zac Watson is part of Darren Fletcher’s Under-18 team, but is currently the backup goalkeeper to Charlie Hardy.

Australian midfielder Jariyah Shah, whose father Tak played semi-professional football in England, is a regular in the Under-18 team having started seven of his side’s eight matches so far this season, and based on reports from the Telegraph is a target for sides like Juventus and AS Monaco among others.

He is yet to sign a professional deal, but has gained some experience training with the first team.

Portuguese winger Neithan Barbosa is currently the furthest in his development of the Manchester United trio having already earned a professional contract with the Old Trafford club last summer.

Logan White, meanwhile, is making a real impression for Leeds United at youth level. According to Transfermarkt, he boasts a record of 10 goals in seven appearances in the Under-18 Premier League this season.

How much will Doncaster Rovers receive to if they progress into the first team?

At the time of their departure, Rovers told the Free Press in 2023 that they will "benefit financially to a significant extent should those players sold progress in the game as we hope they will.”

However, the exact figure Rovers are entitled to remains very much under wraps.

When asked for comment, a club spokesperson said: “Doncaster Rovers has a duty of care to both the club and the individual player when negotiating and entering into transfer agreements.

“Each agreement is negotiated on an individual basis and incorporates contingencies linked to future sporting and financial criteria, including a player’s progression through the age groups into senior football, potential international honours and any subsequent transfers. These provisions provide further financial benefits to the club as a player’s career develops, potentially extending throughout their professional career.

“These arrangements play an important role in supporting the club’s financial sustainability, strengthening cashflow and supporting investment across the club’s operations.

“In line with club policy, the financial terms and specific conditions of individual transfer agreements remain confidential.”