OFFICIAL: Man Utd wonderkid signs new long-term contract

Cameron Smith

6 Mar 2025 10:30 GMT
3 min read

Manchester United forward Ethan Wheatley has officially signed a new long-term contract with the club until 2028.

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The teenager has penned a three-year deal with the Red Devils, with the option for an additional 12 months, following his impressive performances at academy level.

Wheatley has made four senior appearances for Man Utd, with his debut coming against Sheffield United back in April 2024, while he joined League Two side Walsall on loan during the January transfer window.

The teenager has played three times for Walsall since his arrival, although he has been excluded from their matchday squad in each of their last seven league fixtures.

Before his move to Walsall, Wheatley had netted six goals in nine Premier League 2 appearances for Man Utd this campaign, while he helped the club’s U18 side secure three trophies last season.

Following confirmation of his new Man Utd contract, Wheatley posted on Instagram: “Amazing feeling to have signed a new deal with this great club. Another proud moment for me and my family.”

Congratulations to Ethan Wheatley, who has signed a new contract at United! ❤️👏#MUFC || #MUAcademy
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 6, 2025

Kobbie Mainoo update

News of Wheatley’s new contract at Man Utd comes following reports that fellow academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo is demanding a major salary increase to renew his current deal at Old Trafford.

The England international currently earns a reported weekly wage of €24,000 (£20,000), but he is requesting a contract worth €215,000-per-week (£180,000) following his emergence as a key player in the Red Devils’ first-team.

Mainoo’s current deal at Man Utd is due to expire in 2027 and Chelsea are closely monitoring his situation as they eye a possible summer swoop.

Enzo Maresca’s side were heavily linked with a move for Mainoo during the January transfer window, although the Blues ultimately decided against a deal and they opted to sign Mathis Amougou from Saint-Etienne instead.