Man Utd eye League One starlet after Jim Ratcliffe makes Old Trafford transfer plans clear | OneFootball

Manchester United are eyeing a move for highly-rated Port Vale startet Baylee Dipepa.

The youth international scored three goals in two England youth internationals earlier this month and has clearly caught the eye of those at Old Trafford.

Man Utd leading chase for Baylee Dipepa

Man Utd's interest in Dipepa is reported by The Sun, who claim that the Red Devils are leading the race to sign the striker.

The report claims that the Port Vale starlet, who only turned 17 in January, is highly-rated, and speculates that Dipepa could be the first of many young domestic signings for the club following Sir Jim Ratcliffe's takeover.

Indeed, the report claims that Ratcliffe is looking to land young talent and that United's scouts have been told they must be at the front of the queue for domestic talent.

Jim Ratcliffe's Man Utd transfer plans

The above comes following an interview given by Sir Jim Ratcliffe recently in which he offered an insight into what his transfer policy will be at Old Trafford.

Asked if he would sign Kylian Mbappe, Ratcliffe answered replying that he would rather sign the 'next Mbappe', rather than spending big money on established stars - something that has failed United in recent seasons.

"I'd rather find the next Mbappe than spend a fortune trying to buy success," Ratcliffe told The Geraint Thomas Cycling Club podcast.

"Anyone could figure that one out.

"Much more challenging is to find the next Mbappe or Jude Bellingham or the next Roy Keane."

Who is Baylee Dipepa?

Given that he is still in the early stages of his career, Dipepa may not be a name on the radar of Man Utd supporters.

However, Port Vale fans have become very aware of the young prospect this season, who has been on the books at the club since the age of eight.

Dipepa's first taste of senior football came in the EFL Trophy earlier this season, making his debut in that competition in a 1-0 win over Crewe Alexandra aged 16.

Dipepa went on to make a further three appearances in that competition, but has also been trusted to feature in the league for Port Vale this campaign more recently.

Dipepa's league debut came in December, and since, he has gone on to play a total of 16 third tier matches.

The 17-year-old has two goals and two assists to his name in the third tier, with his latest strike helping the Valiants earn an important 2-0 win over Bristol Rovers on Good Friday.

The fact he has broken through and contributed in a Port Vale side currently sitting 21st and embroiled in a relegation battle in League One speaks volumes.

Baylee Dipepa's Port Vale contract

Performances in matches and training in the first half of the season earned Dipepa his first professional contract back in January.

The 17-year-old is now tied down to the club until the summer of 2026.

At the time of his contract being signed, Port Vale's director of football David Flitcroft spoke glowingly of the player.

"Professional contracts at this club are not given, they're earned and Baylee has certainly earned his," Flitcroft told Port Vale club media.

"His profile as a player is an exciting one, he possesses a lot of attributes and qualities required to be a successful striker in the modern game.

"If he continues his hard work and focus, there is no ceiling to what he can achieve at the club."

Whilst United's interest is no doubt flattering, Dipepa will very much be focused on finishing the season strongly with Port Vale amid their current fight for survival.