Exclusive: Leeds make move to sign Man United teen sensation after contract breakdown
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(Credit: Imago) Thu 19 March 2026 10:56, UK Leeds United are lining up a raid on rivals Manchester United for highly-rated youngster Silva Mexes after making contact over a deal, sources have told Football Insider.The teenager is the son of former Cardiff City and Nottingham Forest forward Rob Earnshaw and has been making a name for himself in United’s academy.The 16-year-old, who joined United from Ipswich Town in the summer of 2024, has failed to agree scholarship terms leading to a pro deal and is ready to consider his options.Leeds have registered their interest in signing Mexes and are keen to bring him to Elland Road to bolster their academy ranks in the near future.They see the Thailand youth international as a potential star in the making and believe he could progress through the ranks as Leeds continue to eye improvements. 🔄 Leeds United Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on latest signings, departures, and contract news from the Elland Road boardroom. VISIT THE LEEDS TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Leeds United set sights on deal to sign Silva MexesMexes would not be the first Man United academy gem to make the switch to Elland Road in recent years, after Football Insider revealed Leeds had agreed to sign Edward Ibrovic-Fletcher.The 17-year-old made the switch to Leeds in Februrary, and could now be followed by his former academy teammate as he assesses his long-term future.Player NameYear Left Man UnitedClub JoinedCurrent ClubPaul Pogba2012JuventusMonacoAlvaro Carreras2024BenficaReal MadridDwight McNeil2014BurnleyEvertonAngel Gomes2020LilleWolvesJack Harrison2010Black Rock FCFiorentinaList of high-profile players to leave Man United’s academy.Having failed to put pen to paper on a scholarship deal which would have seen him sign professional terms in the future, a number of clubs have been placed on alert.Mexes is highly rated, not only because of his father’s career in football, but both for his performances in Man United’s academy and his blistering pace.Leeds now feel they can get ahead of rivals in the race for his signature, given their previous deals for United academy stars, and are working to get a deal done.Man United academy sensations attracting attentionMexes is not the only Man United academy gem whose name has been in the news recently, as highly-rated teenager JJ Gabriel continues to grab headlines.Former Old Trafford chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider last month that Gabriel has stunned his coaches at Man United and is being tipped for big things.Credit: Breaking MediaAt just 15 years old, the midfielder has already represented the Under-18s side on multiple occasions, and scored two goals in their recent 6-1 win against Derby County.While he remains a distance away from making his first senior bow, coaches have been impressed by his development and ability to step up through the age groups.Man United hope to take their time with his development to ensure things continue to go smoothly, but have high hopes for his future role in the senior side. 🚨 Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Leeds United Insider Access Get the full story from Elland Road and Thorp Arch with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of West Yorkshire.