Manchester United Set for Squad Changes as Blackpool Releases Ex-Academy Defender

Manchester United are expected to oversee multiple squad and academy changes during the summer transfer window.

It has already been confirmed that experienced midfielder Casemiro will leave Old Trafford at the end of the season.

Recruitment activity has also continued heavily at youth level in recent weeks.

Blackpool also recently handed former Manchester United striker Ashley Fletcher four different awards at their 2025/26 end-of-season ceremony.

This came after an impressive individual campaign at Bloomfield Road.

At the same time, several former Manchester United academy players are now seeing their futures decided elsewhere.

One of those players has now officially departed Blackpool.

Blackpool confirmed their retained and released list on the club’s official website following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season.

Several players are set to leave Bloomfield Road this summer.

Among those released was former Manchester United defender Derek Oshodi.

The youngster previously spent time within United’s academy system before continuing his development elsewhere in English football.

Blackpool’s academy had earlier also confirmed Oshodi’s departure in a social media statement alongside Harry Williamson following the conclusion of their scholarships.

“Blackpool FC Academy can confirm that Harry Williamson and Derek Oshodi will be leaving the Club following the conclusion of their scholarships,” the statement read.

“Everyone at the Club would like to place on record our sincere thanks to both players for their commitment, effort and contribution during their time in the Academy, and we wish them all the very best in the next chapter of their journeys.”

Oshodi had been part of Blackpool’s youth setup during recent seasons as he looked to continue progressing toward senior football.

The defender leaves alongside several other departing players, including James Husband, Dan Sassi and Harvey Bardsley.

Meanwhile, Blackpool confirmed that contract discussions remain ongoing with senior players Ashley Fletcher and Bailey Peacock-Farrell ahead of next season.

The League One side are also preparing for further squad restructuring under manager Ian Evatt following another campaign outside the Championship.

For 18-year-old Oshodi, the focus will now turn toward securing the next step of his career after officially becoming a free agent this summer.