Manchester United have struggled to maximise the potential of some academy stars in recent seasons, either selling too soon or for too cheap.

Angel Gomes was a player who, whether you believe is Manchester United quality or not, was worth more than being released on a free transfer.

This brings us to Shola Shoretire. Like Gomes, Shoretire became one of Manchester United’s youngest players of all time when he made his debut in 2021.

Since then it has been a little more difficult for a player who also like Gomes, is short in stature but high on talent.

Shola Shoretire latest

Shola Shoretire has been playing for Manchester United’s under-21 side this season, where he has 12 goal contributions to date, with seven goals and five assists in all competitions.

Shoretire, still only 19, is at a pivotal point in his future, needing a loan for his development. He got a taste at League One side Bolton Wanderers last season and has earned another opportunity.

The MEN report Manchester United are in talks with Shola Shoretire over a new deal.

This is likely to precede a loan deal, with United receiving interest in Shoretire last summer before electing to keep him around.

But he has not played a single first team minute this season and needs an opportunity.

Shoretire and United should be patient

Manchester United should be looking to secure a decent loan for Shoretire now, which could precede a year-long loan next year.

Players develop at different speeds, and Shoretire, like Gomes, has the talent. Both he and Manchester United should be patient with each other.

A permanent move can’t be ruled out in the summer, considering the way United sold youth players to raise funds in 2023.

So signing Shoretire to a new deal is important, to give United leverage to demand a decent enough fee not to get ripped off, as happens so frequently.

But what we really want is for Shoretire to make it at Manchester United, and it is encouraging that the player and club and trying to work out a long term plan.

Not every player is a regular like Kobbie Mainoo at 18, others like James Garner can take longer to develop, with the young midfielder now thriving for Everton this season.

Securing Shoretire to a long term deal would be a clever move. On the other hand, it would be almost negligent not to.