Manchester United targeting move for League One wonderkid?

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing highly-rated Port Vale youngster Baylee Dipepa.

The 20-time English champions are expected to delve into the transfer market this summer with a view to improving their squad for the 2024-25 campaign.

As well as targeting senior players, the Red Devils are currently on the lookout for young players with the potential to develop into first-team regulars.

New Man United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe outlined his strategy after his INEOS group completed a deal to acquire a minority stake in the club, giving them control of football operations at Old Trafford.

Ratcliffe indicated a desire to find emerging talents after stating that he wants the club to find the "next Kylian Mbappe" rather than focusing solely on signing established stars.

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According to The Sun, Man United's search for talented prospects has led them to identify Dipepa as a potential target.

The 17-year-old has progressed through the youth ranks at Vale Park before making his senior debut in an EFL Trophy clash with Crewe Alexandra in September 2023.

Former Port Vale boss Andy Crosby then presented Dipepa with his first league appearance in December's 1-0 win over Exeter City.

Dipepa has gone to establish himself as a regular fixture in the Port Vale squad, with his performances earning him a call-up to the England Under-17s squad.

The forward came off the bench to score two goals on his debut, helping England to a 5-0 victory in a European Championship qualifier against Northern Ireland earlier this month.

Dipepa then scored in a dominant 5-0 victory over Hungary, before he played 45 minutes of a 2-1 defeat to France.

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Moore wants to exercise caution with Dipepa

The youngster then continued his fine form in Friday's league outing for Port Vale, coming off the bench to replace the injured James Wilson and find the net in a 2-0 win over Bristol.

Although Dipepa played a key role against the Gas, Port Vale manager Darren Moore said after the game that he wants to adopt a cautious approach with the teenager.

Speaking after Friday's win, Moore told the club's media channels: "I was a little bit sceptical with bringing him on because, from a mental and physiological point of view, so much has happened to him in a short space of time."

Moore went on to add: "His stock keeps rising and as long as he performs like that, it gives us a chance of getting out of the situation we are in at the moment."

Dipepa has scored two goals in 16 league appearances for Port Vale this season, and he is likely to be involved when the Valiants continue their survival bid in Monday's away game against Northampton Town.