A murder investigation has been launched after human remains were found near Manchester United’s training academy. A member of the public found the remains wrapped in plastic just ‘yards away’ from the Red Devils’ facilities.

The human remains were found on Thursday afternoon in the woodland area in Kersale Dale in Salford, which is near The Cliff where United’s academy is now based. The first team also used to use the facilities but now train at Carrington.

The area has been sealed off by Greater Manchester Police, with an investigation ongoing to try to shed light on the matter. It was initially unclear as to what the findings were before a pathologist arrived and confirmed that the remains were human.

No arrests have been made in relation to the incident, though it is being treated as a murder investigation. The remains have not yet been identified.

Det Supt Lewis Hughes from Greater Manchester Police’s Serious Crime Division said: “I want to assure the local community that although this is a disturbing and unsettling find, we have a large visible presence in the area to complete enquiries, provide reassurance and to listen to any concerns. I encourage anyone who may have relevant information to speak to these officers.

“A large scene is now in place and is likely to remain for some time, whilst we work to unravel what exactly has happened here. The area is closed to members of the public. The victim has not yet been identified, but we know that behind this discovery there will be a family who have lost a loved one, and we want to make sure they are supported as quickly as possible.”