Barnet FC are thrilled to announce the signing of centre-forward Joe Hugill on a season-long loan from Manchester United!
Born in Durham, the highly-rated striker signed for Manchester United at the age of 16, beating out Arsenal and Spurs for his signature, going on to score 4 goals in a single game against Liverpool U23.
He started training with the Man Utd first team in the 2021-22 season, and was also called up to the England U18 squad.
Joe came through the ranks at United with the likes of Kobbie Mainoo, Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho, and has previously spoken about the joy of working under legendary strikers Ruud Van Nistelrooy and Ole Gunnar Solskjær.
After spells on loan at Altrincham, Burton, Wigan Athletic and most recently Carlisle United, Joe now joins us in North London ahead of a hugely exciting season for the club.
When asked to describe his playing style, Joe said:
“Similar [to] Jamie Vardy, I like to play on the shoulder in behind, using my pace in behind, like those poacher’s finishes in the box.”
“[I’ve] seen how Barnet play, really similar to how I want to play, so [I’m] really excited.”
On his EFL loan experience so far, Joe said:
“I think it’s kind of matured me as a person. It’s been a lot of ups and downs, but I think I’m ready for this one, and I’m ready to get going.”
Speaking about his personal ambitions for the season, Joe said:
“I think it’s just obviously playing a lot of games, scoring a lot of goals is the main thing for a striker, but I’m still pretty young – still 21 – so I think it’s just getting the games under my belt and having a really good season.”
Manager Dean Brennan had glowing praise for his new man:
“We’ve been after this type of player for a long time. Even though he’s tall, his movements and attributes are all in behind.”
“He’s got pace, excellent finisher, very dynamic – we want him to look down the barrel of the goal.”
“He’s such an exciting player, he’s like a Jamie Vardy / Michael Owen type.”
On our summer transfer activity, he added:
“We’re in Phase 3 of recruitment now. The squad’s starting to come together, we’ve only got a couple more bits to do.”
Welcome to Barnet FC, Joe!
The deal is subject to the usual FA and League clearances.