Manchester United are looking to reward two of their most exciting talents with new contracts at Old Trafford in the coming weeks.
Ruben Amorim’s arrival at Manchester United was greatly anticipated for various reasons, including his use of young talent.
The 40-year-old head coach showcased that he is not afraid to involve the Academy stars in the club as long as they have the potential.
Geovany Quenda emerged as one of Europe’s highest-rated youngsters under Amorim’s leadership at Sporting. He has since decided to move to Chelsea despite interest from Old Trafford.
But the hope is that Amorim can start utilising the existing talent at Carrington after gifting first-team debuts to Chido Obi and Harry Amass in recent months.
United planning new contracts for exciting duo
Godwill Kukonki was one of the first young talents who caught Amorim’s eye when he arrived at the club. The defender was included in various first-team squads in the early months under the Portuguese boss.
The 17-year-old has been developing in the youth teams since then and is continuing to impress those in charge at Old Trafford.
It has been reported by the Manchester Evening News that United are looking to reward Kukonki with his first professional contract soon.
He is not the only starlet who is going to be offered professional terms, with Bendito Mantato also set to sign on the dotted line soon.
That was revealed by AcademyScoop, who also detailed that Amorim is keen to give the 17-year-old his first-team debut before the end of the season.
Fabrizio Romano added that Jason Wilcox has been key to the the agreement, which will see Mantato sign until June 2029, and that Amorim is a big fan of the teenager.
United loanee returns for thrilling U21s encounter
Meanwhile, United’s under-21s side were back in action this week as they travelled away to face Leeds United’s youth side following the international break.
The Friday afternoon clash saw Travis Binnion’s side go 2-0 down in the first-half despite showing dominance on the ball.
United grabbed two goals in quick succession in the second period after Sekou Kone netted his first goal for the club in stunning fashion with a volley into the roof of the net. The 19-year-old also won a penalty moments later which was converted by Sam Mather.
The young Reds pushed for a winner but had to settle for a point in the end after a thrilling encounter.
Eagle-eyed supporters would have wondered why Mather was lining up for the under-21s despite being on loan at Tranmere Rovers.
The young forward has made just two appearances for the League Two outfit since his January move and MUTV commentary explained that he was playing to get some extra game-time.
Academy players remain eligible to play for United’s youth teams even when they are on loan at lower league sides.
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