Manchester United could be set to make a move for a young talent, continuing their new transfer policy under the INEOS ownership.
Manchester United have begun to put an emphasis on signing young players since Sir Jim Ratcliffe purchased a minority stake in the club, with Jason Wilcox playing a key role in the new transfer policy due to his experience in youth football at Manchester City.
Since he was promoted to Director of Football, Wilcox has already signed several young talents, including: Harley Emsden-James, Enzo Kana-Biyik and Diego Leon. This adds to the brilliant talent already at Old Trafford, which is even more stacked after Ayden Heaven and Chido Obi joined last season.
To go alongside the young signings, United have also begun to sign Premier League-proven players who can improve Rúben Amorim’s side from the very outset. Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo have been superb since their summer arrivals, helping United push on to a new level under Amorim.
The January transfer window could see several young players leave Old Trafford, with clubs in the EFL eyeing moves for at least three under-21 stars after Harry Amass and Radek Vitek’s success in the Championship.
Therefore, Wilcox appears to be looking at some more promising youngsters to sign for Travis Binnion’s academy side and Amorim has now revealed what young players must showcase before they play for the senior team.
Amorim reveals what United look for
Playing for United was once considered a great honour, but that seems to have been lost in recent years. But, Amorim seems to be attempting to reinstate that mentality with his new transfer demands. Speaking during the international break, Amorim revealed what he looks for before promoting an academy player to the senior squad.
“First of all, it’s an honour to play for Manchester United,” said the United boss. “And sometimes, some young players take that for granted.
“Next, you have to look at the physical aspect, because it’s very important for playing in the Premier League.” Perhaps, this is the reason why Shea Lacey hasn’t played for United just yet; he needs to develop his physical attributes.
“Then, you have to help the kids manage media attention. You have to be very careful when a young player plays a match, not to overhype it. That’s been a problem in the past.
“Finally, talent and work ethic. That’s what we look for in our players.” These attributes will be carefully considered when signing new players, especially young talents who will go into the academy setup.
United eye move for Mokio
Jorthy Mokio is just 17 years old, but he has already made 11 appearances for Ajax’s senior side this season after making 17 last campaign. He played 67 minutes in Ajax’s 5-1 loss to Chelsea in the Champions League.
While the Dutch giants are looking to extend his contract, Mokio isn’t “convinced” by the current setup in Amsterdam and appears close to leaving the club. United are reportedly monitoring him “very closely”, as per Sky Sports.
The club believe he “perfectly” suits the new policy at Old Trafford, so Amorim will be happy to sign the young Belgian. However, Newcastle United are also interested in the young midfielder.
Eintracht Frankfurt also hold a “keen interest”, so United must act quickly if they want to agree a deal with Mokio before other clubs enter the transfer race.
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