There is little indication of whether a possible move would be on loan or permanent, but it is unlikely Sir Alex Ferguson will want to offload the left-winger who is regarded as an extremely bright prospect by many supporters and staff at Old Trafford.

However, Richardson has struggled to get himself into first-team contention with Welsh international Ryan Giggs sitting ahead of the youngster in the pecking order, and he has been linked with temporary moves to a series of clubs lower down the Football League.

London-born Richardson started his career with West Ham United, before United snapped him up for an undisclosed fee back in July 2002. Since then he has had success at youth levels with the Red Devils, leading the side to Youth Cup success in 2003, but at present has only made two league appearances for the club, both as substitute, although the 19-year-old does have a League Cup goal to his name.

A loan move would do the world of good for Richardson, giving him some match fitness at a high level and giving him some key experience as he looks to get himself into contention for a place in the United first-team squad.

Richardson has also represented England at youth levels, and despite his age has already gained a fair bit of experience playing all over the world for the United youth ranks and with England youngsters. The Saddlers currently sit in the lower regions of mid-table in a very tight First Division. Richardson would be a great acquisition for the Midlands club, whether it be permanently or temporary, and would add to their chances of pulling away from any relegation threat.

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