AliousBrighton Snap Up 16-Year-Old Dan Nneji in Record Academy Deal as Cambridge United Celebrate Premier League Double Transfer
Cambridge United have confirmed the departure of two of their most promising young talents, with Under-16 defender Dan Nneji sealing a high-profile move to Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion for a record-breaking academy transfer fee. Meanwhile, Under-15 midfielder Dom Wright has also joined a top-tier category one academy, marking a major milestone in the club’s youth development program.
Nneji, a centre-back who has spent five formative years at Cambridge since arriving at the age of 10, becomes the latest academy success story for the League One club. Wright, who joined Cambridge as a 13-year-old, has also impressed enough to earn a switch to the elite ranks of English football.
These dual departures highlight the club’s growing reputation for producing high-calibre young talent capable of stepping up to Premier League academies. Over recent seasons, Cambridge United has seen a steady flow of youth prospects move to top-flight setups, and the latest moves only enhance that track record.
Director of Football Mark Bonner praised the academy’s achievements, stating:
“We’re incredibly proud to have reached agreements for both Dan and Dom to continue their journeys at Premier League clubs. Their development reflects the outstanding work being done by our Academy Manager, Dom Knighton, and the entire academy staff. They consistently nurture players with the potential to make it at the highest level.”
Bonner also emphasised that the success of an academy extends beyond first-team progression. “Of course, breaking into the senior squad is a key aim,” he said, “but our broader mission is to equip players with the tools they need—footballing, academic, and personal—to thrive wherever their careers take them. These moves show we’re doing exactly that.”
Cambridge United’s youth setup is now earning recognition across English football for its ability to produce well-rounded, high-potential athletes, and these transfers mark another proud chapter in the club’s ongoing academy journey.
In related news, the club’s U21s will be in action against some high-profile opponents in the coming weeks, including home fixtures against Brighton & Hove Albion U21s (Tuesday 23 September, 7pm) and Luton Town (Tuesday 7 October, 7pm), along with an away trip to Barnet on Tuesday 21 October.
Tickets for the two home matches will soon be available, priced at £14 for adults, £8 for concessions, and £5 for under-18s.
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