Controversial move: First signing of the INEOS era set to ditch United in favour of joining arch-rivals Leeds – report

Apart from first-team stars, the fate of several Manchester United academy graduates is likely to be decided this summer. As previously relayed by The Peoples Person, Toby Collyer looks to be on his way out of the club, while Radek Vitek could potentially follow him out of the club after a brilliant loan spell. However, a controversial transfer is in the works, with Leeds United agreeing a deal to sign highly-rated winger Silva Mexes, according to Talent Hunter. The 16-year-old is eligible to sign a scholarship contract, and Leeds have offered him the same with the Thailand Under-17 international set to sign on the dotted line this summer. Controversial transfer He will be rewarded with his first professional deal when he turns 17. Leeds’ plan is to utilise him in both Under-18 and Under-21 games next season. “Leeds United are set to sign 16 year-old winger Silva Mexes from Manchester United. Leeds United are set to sign 16 year-old winger Silva Mexes from Manchester United.👀✍️ Mexes will sign his scholarship with Leeds before signing his first professional contract once he turns 17 early next year.✅ He will be joining the U18 and U21 age groups from next season.… pic.twitter.com/6RPLl4CHiF — The Talent Hunter 🎯 (@TalentHunter) June 8, 2026 “Mexes will sign his scholarship with Leeds before signing his first professional contract once he turns 17 early next year. “He will be joining the U18 and U21 age groups from next season. An unbelievable signing for Leeds and definitely a player to look out for.” Silva Mexes set to join Leeds Interestingly, Silva Mexes was the first signing of the INEOS era, with the Red Devils snapping him up from Ipswich Town’s academy. It was expected that the wonderkid would remain in Manchester, considering his father, former Wales striker Rob Earnshaw, was a big United fan growing up. However, it seems the family felt a pathway to the first team would be easier to access at Elland Road. While a direct move from Old Trafford to their arch-rivals is not too common, recently Under-18 star Edward Ibrovic-Fletcher also chose to walk down the same path. Feature image Alex Livesey via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25