The Red Devils’ recruitment team have positioned themselves at the front of a highly competitive queue for the 14-year-old.
He attracted nationwide attention after scoring an astonishing 45 goals in all competitions last season.
The England Under-15 international is now regarded as one of the most sought-after young forwards in British football.
Henry featured in the Under-18 Premier League for Derby County last season, making him one of the youngest players ever to appear in the competition – just months after his 14th birthday.
His blend of clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and physical maturity has convinced United’s sporting directors that he is a generation-defining talent.
The Old Trafford outfit want to outmanoeuvre Manchester City in the race to sign him.
Henry has opted to leave the Rams’ academy this summer despite their persistent efforts over the past 18 months to secure his long-term future.
Derby resigned to losing him, but they are guaranteed a significant compensation package, determined by the player’s age, Category 1 academy status, and international record.
If club-to-club discussions cannot establish a valuation in the coming weeks, the final compensation package will be set by a Professional Football Compensation Committee tribunal.
United are confident of clearing any administrative hurdles swiftly, given their eagerness to sign the highly rated youngster.
