Man Utd and Barcelona showing most interest in signing 17-year-old ‘pure talent’, approach made

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Manchester United’s recruitment of wonderkids across the world has been one massive benefit of Ineos’ arrival into the footballing operations.

Over the past 18 months, this recruitment policy has resulted in several exciting players coming through the doors at Carrington, with high hopes behind their moves.

Sekou Kone, Ayden Heaven, and Diego Leon are all examples of this, and now Manchester United have also agreed to sign Cristian Orozco.

However, there is one wonderkid that United are currently battling for who would be the pick of the bunch.

Manchester United and Barcelona lead race to sign Gilberto Mora

Over the past six months, it has been impossible not to become aware of Gilberto Mora, as the Mexican superkid goes from strength to strength.

United have had scouts watching Mora, and they will be very impressed with his performances during the U20 World Cup.

However, most of Europe’s elite are also keen, but now South American journalist Cesar Luis Merlo has given a bit of hope, claiming United are alongside Barcelona as the most interested clubs.

This comes after United in Focus exclusively revealed that United had made contact with Mora’s representatives, making him aware of the interest they have in signing him.

Given Mora turned 17 this month, his arrival in Europe is unlikely to be arranged until 2026, with a January 2027 move looking likely, and United should be looking to pre-agree a deal.

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Manchester United must throw everything at Gilberto Mora

In terms of raw talent, Mora is a player United cannot miss out on, as he promises to become one of the best in world football.

Already a full Mexico international, the Tijuana star will be at the World Cup next summer, with the first team head coach Javier Aguirre praising his “pure talent”, debuting him at 16, as quoted by FIFA.

So with this in mind, and having watched Mora through the U20 World Cup, he seems like a no-brainer for United to throw everything at to convince him to join the club.

Already a leader and coping with the pressure of a nation, he is the type of character to succeed at United, and so he should be a priority for the club.

This is a generational talent, and Ineos must do everything possible to make it happen.