This Mexican starlet is drawing admiring glances from Premier League giants
At the U-20 World Cup, one of Mexico’s chief talents is going to be under the microscope of Premier League scouts.
One of England’s most storied soccer clubs is setting its sights on fresh talent, and the scouting mission begins in Chile. Manchester United is dispatching scouts to the FIFA U-20 World Cup to evaluate emerging prospects, with a particular focus on a standout from Mexico’s national team: Gilberto Mora.
According to Premier League transfer expert Graeme Bailey, United is keen to bring Mora to Europe, potentially following in the footsteps of fellow Mexican Javier “Chicharito” Hernández, who once lit up Old Trafford.
United can expect competition
The 16-year-old midfielder, currently playing for Club Tijuana, has already made waves with his mature performances and technical poise well beyond his years.
But the Red Devils won’t have an easy path. Club Tijuana is reportedly fielding interest from other European giants, most notably Real Madrid. The Spanish powerhouse, which previously featured Mexican legends Hugo Sánchez and Hernández, is also tracking Mora closely.
Sources suggest Los Blancos may be the frontrunners, especially given Mora’s recent rise under national team coach Javier Aguirre and his dream of playing in Madrid.
Mora’s impressive Tijuana stats
Mora’s Tijuana numbers speak volumes. Across the Apertura 2025 and the Leagues Cup, he’s netted five goals, added an assist, completed 26 key passes, and logged 571 minutes on the pitch. His current market value stands at €4.5 million ($5.3 million), according to Transfermarkt.
But Mora isn’t the only name on United’s radar. Scouts will also be watching Nigerian goalkeeper Ebeneezer Harcourt, a 15-year-old sensation who made history as the youngest player to represent Nigeria’s senior team.
Harcourt, who plays for Sporting Lagos, is considered a generational talent and has drawn interest from clubs across Europe and the Saudi Pro League.
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