AI in Football: How ChatGPT Aided a Transfer

Former Manchester United Prospect Uses AI for Transfer

In a groundbreaking development blending sports and artificial intelligence, a former Manchester United youth prospect reportedly utilized ChatGPT, OpenAI’s conversational AI, to assist in managing his recent football transfer negotiations. This unusual approach, highlighted by ESPN and confirmed by multiple sources, marks a significant moment in how emerging athletes might leverage AI tools to navigate complex career decisions traditionally handled by agents and advisors.

Who, What, When, Where, and Why

The footballer in question is a former Manchester United academy player who, after leaving the club, sought to secure a move to a new team. Rather than relying solely on conventional agents or intermediaries, the player reportedly used ChatGPT to draft communications, analyze contract terms, and strategize his transfer approach. The move took place during the recent transfer window of 2025 and has attracted considerable attention for its novelty and potential implications.

This case is one of the first publicly documented instances where an athlete has directly employed AI-powered language models to influence a professional sports transfer. It reflects broader trends of digital transformation in sports management, where data analytics, AI, and machine learning increasingly shape scouting, training, and now contract negotiations.

Background: AI in Sports Management

Artificial intelligence’s role in football and broader sports ecosystems has expanded dramatically over the past decade—from performance analytics and injury prediction to fan engagement and tactical simulations. However, leveraging generative AI like ChatGPT for personal contract negotiations is a relatively new frontier.

Traditionally, player transfers involve agents who negotiate terms, advise on career moves, and mediate between clubs and players. The use of AI here introduces a novel layer of support, enabling players to draft clearer communications, better understand contract jargon, and possibly avoid unfavorable terms.

How ChatGPT Assisted the Player

According to ESPN’s report and follow-up interviews with those familiar with the situation:

• Drafting Communication: The player used ChatGPT to craft professional, clear, and persuasive messages to prospective clubs and their representatives. This helped streamline initial contacts and maintain professionalism.
• Contract Analysis: ChatGPT was employed to break down complex contract clauses into simpler language, highlighting key points and potential red flags.
• Strategic Advice: The AI provided hypothetical responses and negotiation tactics, simulating possible counteroffers and club reactions, which enabled the player to prepare better.
• Time Efficiency: By automating routine drafting and analysis, the player saved valuable time and reduced reliance on external agents, potentially lowering costs.

While the AI model does not replace human judgment or legal advice, it served as a powerful tool augmenting the player’s negotiation capabilities.

Industry Reaction and Implications

The revelation sparked mixed reactions across the football and sports management communities:

• Positive Views: Advocates see this as an empowering development for players, especially those without access to high-profile agents. AI can democratize access to negotiation expertise and improve transparency.
• Concerns: Some experts warn about overreliance on AI without professional counsel. Contract law and transfer regulations are complex, and mistakes could have legal or financial repercussions.
• Agent Industry: Traditional agents may feel threatened but could also integrate AI tools to enhance their services, combining human networks with AI-driven insights.

Sports lawyer Emma Richardson commented, “Using AI like ChatGPT for preliminary contract review is innovative, but it should complement—not replace—expert legal advice, especially in high-stakes transfers.”

Broader Context: AI and Athlete Empowerment

This case fits into the broader narrative of athlete empowerment through technology. Digital platforms and AI tools enable players to take more control over their careers, from training and performance monitoring to brand building and now contract negotiations.

Moreover, the incident highlights ethical and regulatory considerations. Football governing bodies and leagues may need to establish guidelines around AI use in transfers to ensure fairness and transparency. Additionally, data privacy and cybersecurity concerns emerge when using AI platforms for sensitive negotiations.

Conclusion

The use of ChatGPT by a former Manchester United prospect to assist in his transfer negotiations marks a notable milestone at the intersection of AI and professional sports. It exemplifies how artificial intelligence can serve as a practical aid in navigating complex career decisions, potentially reshaping how athletes manage transfers and contracts in the future.

As AI technology continues to evolve, its integration into sports management will likely deepen, prompting stakeholders—from players and agents to clubs and regulators—to adapt. This pioneering example signals a future where AI agents might become standard companions in the world of professional football and beyond.