Former Bolton Wanderers loanee Shola Shoretire looks set to sign a new contract with Manchester United before heading out on loan this month, according to Manchester Evening News.
The 19-year-old spent the second half of last season at the Trotters, making 16 League One appearances, where he contributed one goal and two assists. He returned to Old Trafford in the summer and has captained the under-23 side during the first half of the campaign.
The midfielder is currently the youngest player to represent Manchester United in European competition, after coming on as a second half substitute in the 0-0 draw with Real Sociedad in the Europa League in 2021, just 23 days after his 17th birthday. He has since made a further four appearances for the Red Devils, but his progression appears to have stalled under Erik ten Hag.
Shoretire has not featured for United’s first team since coming on as a late substitute in the Premier League clash with Crystal Palace in April 2022, although he does have five goals and four assists to his name for the second string this season.
✍️ We are delighted to announce the signing of Shola Shoretire on loan from @ManUtd until the end of the season.
👊 Welcome to the club, @SholaShoretire! ⚪️🔵#BWFC 🐘🏰
— Bolton Wanderers (@OfficialBWFC) January 19, 2023
Despite this season’s setback, it does appear as if more senior football is on the cards for the second half of the campaign, with the 20-time English champions preparing another temporary stint for the teenager. According to the report, United are keen to tie the former England under-19 international down to fresh terms prior to him joining up with a new club.
However, it does appear as if Shoretire’s time at the Theatre of Dreams is coming to an end, with it claimed that United are looking to protect his value with the new deal, rather than letting his existing terms dwindle down and run the risk of losing him for a smaller fee.
A number of Championship clubs are said to be interested, as well as interest from the continent.
Writer’s View
Shola Shoretire will take inspiration from his former teammate Charlie Savage, who has been a big hit since joining Reading in the summer. The Welsh international has impressed during his brief spell in Berkshire and has caught the eye of Derby County, who are chasing promotion to the Championship.
The 19-year-old has bags of potential and is more than capable of plying his trade in the Championship before working his way back up the pyramid. There will be no shortage of offers for the talented youngster.
