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Manchester United set to compete with Chelsea and Real Madrid for midfield talent
Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Manchester United are keeping tabs on Mexican prodigy Gilberto Mora, and want to sign him

Manchester United have been keeping tabs on Gilberto Mora, and reports from TBR Football state that the 16-year-old from Tijuana has attracted several top European clubs. Real Madrid and Chelsea are also competing in this chase, while other teams are monitoring the situation. The report reveals that the 16-year-old attacking midfielder wants to move to Real Madrid. He views the Spanish giants as his preferred destination, which creates a challenge for United because convincing a player who prefers Real Madrid will require clear planning.

Mora cannot move to Europe until he turns 18 under FIFA rules, but clubs still include him in long-term plans. Manchester United remain eager to add talent, especially after earlier reports stated that they will look to the January transfer window to strengthen their squad further, depending on Rúben Amorim’s future.

The club’s recruitment staff believe they must secure bright prospects early, due to increasing competition across Europe. However, Real Madrid have often lured young players, and Mora may be tempted to follow other rising stars who have chosen Spain. Chelsea have also invested heavily in teenagers, and their focus on young signings makes them another major obstacle. Yet, if United manage to finalise this move, they could secure a future midfielder capable of adding creativity to their attacking unit.

What will Mora provide and the relevance of the transfer

Mora is very good with his close control and dribbling, which help him skip past pressure and work well in tight spaces. The attacking midfielder has quick feet and agility, which allow him to dictate play higher up the pitch. Moreover, Mora’s sharp vision ensures that he can break defensive lines with incisive passes and runs. The Mexican shows maturity and composure even at this age, while his ball-carrying ability helps his team initiate attacks.

Despite his promise, he still has weaknesses that Manchester United must consider. Mora remains lightweight, and his physicality may not yet withstand the rigours of English football, particularly in a league where duels often decide the rhythm of matches. His defensive positioning needs work, as he struggles to track back and maintain balance off the ball. Like many his age, Mora struggles with consistency and can fade after standout moments.

While his potential excites scouts, United’s pressing midfield concerns appear rooted elsewhere. They often need a disciplined player who shields the defence and stops transitions, a role Mora cannot yet fill. In fact, earlier reports revealed that Manchester United are unlikely to land Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde, and this context highlights why they seek midfield reinforcements capable of combining defensive solidity with possession retention.

Therefore, while investing in Mora could secure a creative gem for the future, it might not immediately address United’s current shortcomings. Ultimately, it depends on whether United see him as a long-term project worth chasing despite competition from Real Madrid and Chelsea.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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