Manchester United and Manchester City may have players in their academies who have lied about their age, it has been claimed. Doubt has been cast over the ages of six foreign-born players who are currently involved in the academies of the Premier League giants. United and City have been made aware of photographs and documents which reportedly indicates that the players in question, three of whom have played for England at youth level, could be a lot older than their official age. An investigation by The Telegraph has unearthed records of potential age-fraud and therefore potential safeguarding issues at the academies. While the photos and documents don’t prove that their stated ages are false, concerns have been raised by the parents of others involved in academy football. None of the youngsters involved have been named because they could be considered vulnerable minors and United and City are not accused of knowingly enabling the potential age-fraud. But the potential age-fraud could also raise worries over trafficking of youngsters, because FIFA prevents clubs from signing children who have moved countries, unless their parents or legal guardians have relocated for non-footballing reasons. The two clubs, the Premier League and the Home Office declined to comment when asked if they had taken any action, or would do so. In a statement, United said: “We are committed to operating all aspects of our academy within the rules and regulations laid down by our governing bodies, including in the recruitment and registration of players. “We take our responsibilities for player wellbeing and safeguarding very seriously. Indeed, we take pride in the reputation we have developed for considering the participants in our programmes as first and foremost children, rather than players. Our recruitment process is focused firmly on future potential rather than current performance or physical development.” Parents of other players in the academies have raised their concerns with club staff and have also reached out to the safeguarding teams at the Football Association and Premier League. One parent told the Telegraph that they believe their son could be playing against players who are “maybe four, five years” older. “There’s a massive safeguarding issue,” they said. “Not only is it pretty unforgiving, it’s also potentially dangerous as well. “You’re getting hit hard with a tackle or a challenge by a kid that you’re giving a foot away to. Sometimes, you’re giving away a foot in height and two or three stone in weight. If one of these guys hits you with a challenge, you know about it.” Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.