Manchester United have lost Irish whizkid Deji Sotona.

The Manchester Evening News says Sotona has left United after rejecting a three-year contract.

Sotona, 17, turned down the offer of a three-year professional contract as he wanted a weekly salary just under five figures.

Sotona, a Republic of Ireland youth international, also wanted the guarantee of a first-team promotion this season even though his only appearance for the Under-21s lasted a minute as he was sent off in the EFL Trophy defeat to Tranmere.

Sotona made 11 starts and 11 substitute appearances for the Under-18s last season and scored the winner in their FA Youth Cup quarter-final victory over Wigan at Old Trafford.

Rochdale have been linked with a move for him and are lacking forwards but Sotona would have to significantly alter his salary expectations if he is to move to Spotland.