Anthony Elanga joined the list of exciting Manchester United youngsters to sign a new contract last week.
The 18-year-old Swede has been making waves for United’s youth teams. And next season it would be no surprise if he heads out on loan.
Some United prospects are expected to stay close – like Hannibal Mejbri and Shola Shoretire – but Elanga may benefit from a year elsewhere.
After all, he is a tricky winger who is quickly outgrowing U23 football. Yet he is unlikely to be ready for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s first-team just yet.
With Amad Diallo impressing at Old Trafford, and another winger potentially arriving this summer, Elanga’s best chance to impress is in a temporary stint lower down the football pyramid.
Elanga has scored 10 goals and provided eight assists for United U18s and is equally impressive for the second string.
In 25 U23 appearances, the Swede has found the net eight times and his attacking talent would attract plenty of loan suitors.
Predominantly a left winger, Elanga can also play up front, and his versatility means Solskjaer will be keeping a close eye on him, wherever he ends up.
United have a few young wingers hoping to make their mark.
Tahith Chong’s year out on loan has not gone to plan. Yet there is a feeling among some United supporters that Elanga is a brighter prospect than the Dutchman.
The latest in line
United are developing a habit of bringing wide attackers through, with Marcus Rashford blossoming both centrally and on the flank.
Only time will tell if Elanga can follow his lead. Yet it is telling that the 18-year-old opted to sign a new deal at Old Trafford rather than move on like Largie Ramazani before him.
Another wide attacker, Ramazani is now making waves in the Spanish second tier.
Elanga could move to a similar club, albeit safe in the knowledge that his long-term future is in England.