Manchester United have seen young players capture the imagination this season and Ineos may really lean into that approach moving forward.
The 2023-24 campaign was a largely forgettable one for Manchester United.
Dropping to eighth in the Premier League table and finishing bottom of the Champions League group means this season can’t be considered a success.
Yes, the FA Cup final win over Manchester City has provided a welcome boost but United need to fare much better moving forward.
Outside of that Wembley success, United’s biggest bright spot from the campaign may be the emergence of young players.
Alejandro Garnacho took his game to another level whilst Kobbie Mainoo not only broke into the side but made himself undroppable.
Jason Wilcox may want United to ease the burden on Garnacho and Mainoo moving forward but they are just so good – and have the potential to get even better.
Developing more talents such as Garnacho and Mainoo has to be a focus for United and one young talent has now signed on the dotted line at Old Trafford.
Silva Mexes confirms Manchester United move
Reports in March indicated that United were close to completing the signing of teenager Silva Mexes.
Mexes is only 14 but has shown real promise in the Ipswich Town ranks, sparking United’s interest.
The young forward is the son of former Premier League striker Robert Earnshaw.
Earnshaw scored for West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford back in 2005, burying a penalty in a 1-1 draw.
Earnshaw’s son is now heading to United and Mexes notes on his Instagram that he is a 100m sprint champion at Under-13 level in Essex.
United have now completed a deal for Mexes to arrive and the teenager has confirmed his move on Instagram.
Mexes has posed with a number seven shirt, complete with his name on the back.
United have had some incredible number sevens over the years and Mexes will now hope to follow in their footsteps.
Mexes also sent a message upon completing his move to United, vowing that the ‘work starts now’ having joined the United academy ranks.
“Very proud moment for me and my family to announce my signing for Manchester United. Thank you for everyone who has helped me on my journey so far. The work starts now,” said Mexes.
More young talents wanted
Ineos seemingly want to make sure that United are at the forefront of the race for any top young talent emerging in English football.
Mexes arriving is further proof of that approach and United may yet have more similar signings to come.
Port Vale talent Baylee Dipepa is a prime target and reports indicate that United are leading the race for his signature.
West Ham United and Newcastle United are interested in Dipepa too but United will be hoping to raid Port Vale after their relegation to League Two.
Dipepa isn’t the only target either as Blackburn Rovers prospect Igor Tyjon is also wanted in the United academy.
16-year-old Tyjon has previously trained with United and a summer deal is now wanted after showing his potential at Blackburn.
United have secured Mexes and may now hope that Dipepa and Tyjon follow as the focus on signing top talents really kicks into gear.