Manchester United have initiated preliminary discussions with forgotten teenage sensation Shola Shoretire regarding a potential new contract, Manchester Evening News report.
The Red Devils are keen to tie the 19-year-old to a new long-term deal while contemplating the possibility of shipping him out on loan this month.
Shoretire has been in exceptional form in the Premier League 2 this season, bagging five goals and four assists in eight league games. He also notched two goals in three EFL Trophy appearances.
However, the teenager has endured a frustrating last couple of years that has seen him fall down the pecking order within the club due to the emergence of other academy graduates.
Shoretire made his senior debut aged 17 for United, highlighting his remarkable talent and potential to become a world-beater.
He also became the youngest player to represent the Red Devils in a European competition, but he has since faded away and been eclipsed by Alejandro Garnacho’s meteoric rise.
First-team opportunities have come at a premium for the youngster, prompting talks of a loan exit.
A temporary stint away from United could do the England under-19 international the world of good, but the club is eager to secure his services for the long term future before sanctioning an exit.
Having attracted interest from Championship clubs and overseas last summer, Shoretire remains a sought-after prospect.
While the possibility of a permanent departure cannot be ruled out this year, United are prioritising a new contract for the teenager to safeguard his value in case of a potential sale.
Ex-United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer handed Shoretire his first team debut against Newcastle United in February 2021, which was followed by a cameo appearance in a Europa League fixture against Real Sociedad.
Shoretire spent six months on loan with League One club Bolton Wanderers last season, notching a goal and two assists in 16 appearances, but it wasn’t enough to earn a spot in the first team.
Shoretire’s academy teammates Dan Gore and Joe Hugill could also exit United on loan this month amid interest from several lower-league clubs.
