Man United 16-year-old starlet scores four goals after Erik ten Hag call-up, but is considering transfer options

Manchester United starlet Bendito Mantato scored four goals for the Under-18s on Saturday afternoon in a 5-2 victory over Blackburn Rovers.

Mentato, 16, single-handedly dragged United’s youth side back into the game after going 2-0 down in the first half.

He scored a wonderful goal to half the deficit before the interval and scored a further three goals in the second half to secure an important three points after the first loss of the league campaign came last week against Manchester City.

Adam Lawrence’s side have been excellent this season and Mentato is one of many players who has excited supporters with the talent on offer.

The 16-year-old has made nine appearances for the U18s this term, scoring five and grabbing two assists. His progression from left-back to right-wing has earned him comparisons to Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka.

Mentato was pictured in Erik ten Hag’s first-team training session for the first time earlier this month alongside fellow 16-year-old Harry Amass. The pair, among others, are highly rated at Old Trafford.

However, recent reports from the Manchester Evening News have stated that the teenager has attracted interest from a handful of top Premier League clubs.

It was added that United are hopeful that the talented academy player will sign new terms at the club when he turns 17, and youth expert AcademyScoop has also stated that it is likely that he will remain at Old Trafford.

Ten Hag has introduced several youth talents to the first-team setup since joining the club in 2022. Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho have become integral members of the squad.

Meanwhile, Willy Kambwala and Omari Forson have also been given opportunities under the Dutchman this season.