Man United Secures Long-Term Deal With Teenage Striker Ahead Of January Transfer Window

A lethal goal scorer could have a bright future with Manchester United.

After agreeing to a new contract prior to Christmas Eve, Anthony Elanga went on to sign a new long-term deal with Manchester United, the club announced.

Elanga has inked a fresh set of terms to remain at the club until June 2026, with the option of an additional year.

The 19-year-old had just signed a contract with the Red Devils nine months ago, but after an impressive spell in the English Premier League Division 2, Manchester United now wants Elanga to continue progressing at Old Trafford.

Since joining Manchester United at age 12, Elanga has worked hard to earn a spot in the club’s youth teams. In the 2020-21 season, he bagged a total of 10 goals in 18 matches. This season, Elanga looks primed for another remarkable campaign, having already notched four goals in eight games to date.

Like most of his contemporaries in the club, Elanga is being motivated by the idea of a lasting career with Manchester United.

"My ultimate ambition has always been to play for Manchester United,” Elanga said in a statement. "The standard is extremely high, but this contract is another important moment in my journey. This is the perfect environment to take the next step, with world-class players and coaches to learn from every day.”

"I am overjoyed that the club has shown such faith in my development, and I want to thank my family and all of the staff for their ongoing support,” he added. "I know that with hard work and dedication comes opportunity at this special club and I cannot wait to continue my progress here. Glory to God always.”

Addressing Elanga’s future at Manchester United, club director John Murtough said that they are “thrilled” to see another youngster continue his progress in their “world-leading youth development system.”

"We are thrilled that Anthony has signed this new contract, and everyone is excited to see him grow over the coming seasons," Murtough stated. "Anthony is a young player that we all really believe in. He has consistently impressed throughout the academy age groups and risen to every challenge that he has faced."

"Anthony is extremely dedicated; he has the work-rate and attitude to keep improving every day and succeed at Manchester United," he continued. "He is yet another fantastic example of the type of player that our world-leading youth development system continues to produce."

Meanwhile, Manchester United is still heavily linked to Borussia Dortmund wonderboy Erling Haaland. Recent reports said that Red Devils boss Ralf Rangnick is keen to land the striker next year.