Mills and Plunkett to sign pro deals as Mexes departs United academy for Leeds

Manchester United have confirmed their retained list, with Albert Mills and Dante Plunkett set to sign their first professional contracts next month, while a third academy prospect, Silva Mexes, is heading to Leeds United’s youth setup.

Mills and Plunkett earn pro terms

Mills, a centre-back, was one of the standout performers in United’s Under-18 side this season, starting every FA Youth Cup fixture as the Reds reached the final. His form earned him a debut for England’s Under-18s at the end of May, and he will now be rewarded with his first professional deal at 18.

Plunkett accumulated just under 600 minutes of action during the campaign but also marked the season with a significant personal milestone — a call-up to Jamaica’s senior men’s squad, which he described as an “incredible experience.” He too will put pen to paper on his first pro contract next month.

The pair signing at 18 rather than on their 17th birthday — the earliest date professional terms can be offered — underlines that development timelines differ from player to player.

Mexes set to join Leeds

Silva Mexes is the latest youngster to leave Carrington for Elland Road. The 16-year-old forward, who joined United from Ipswich Town in the summer of 2024 at the age of 14, did not make an appearance for the Under-18s this season. Leeds are understood to have promised him a professional contract when he turns 17.

Mexes is the son of former Wales and Cardiff City international Robert Earnshaw and has represented Thailand’s youth teams to date. His move follows that of Leeds-born Edward Ibrovic-Fletcher, who joined the Elland Road club from United’s academy earlier this year.

Further departures confirmed

United also confirmed the exits of James Bailey and Malachi Sharpe. Sharpe, who spent five years at the club, posted a farewell message acknowledging a difficult spell with injuries: “After five years, my time at Man United has come to an end. I want to say thank you to God, the coaches, players, staff and the fans for my incredible time with this amazing club. Though my time had been difficult with injuries, I vow to do my best on the next part of my journey. Once a red, always a red.”