Leeds United want to sign Silva Mexes, and the timing of their interest points to a clear and calculated move before Manchester United can secure his long-term future.
According to a report from transfer expert Pete O’Rourke on X, Leeds are interested in Silva Mexes. The Yorkshire club is positioned to act before his situation at Manchester United changes.
They are seen as favourites to sign him, with his current deal nearing expiry as he approaches a key point in his development. The timing is critical because his contract is nearing expiry as he turns 16.
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This is when academy players typically formalise their next step. Under FA guidance, academy players sign scholarships at 16, creating a narrow window for clubs to intervene.
Silva Mexes is not a typical academy prospect
Silva Mexes Tyler-Earnshaw has already followed a notable pathway through elite academies at a young age. He joined from Ipswich Town in 2024 and has since accelerated through their youth setup.
Mexes has played up an age group, which reflects how he is being pushed beyond his current age level. His physicality stands out, with an 11.2-second 100m time highlighting the pace that defines his game.
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Mexes has already stepped beyond academy football by representing Thailand at U17 level. He also scored in the AFC U17 Asian Cup, showing he can deliver in competitive international fixtures.
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This level of exposure at his age adds weight to Leeds’ interest, as it reflects both trust and output outside club football. Not only that, but Mexes even has football heritage in his family, directly from his father.
The Earnshaw background adds context to his pathway
Mexes is the son of Rob Earnshaw, which placed him in a football environment early on. Earnshaw has already described his son’s move to United as really, really special, underlining the level he is operating at.
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That background does not guarantee success, but it provides structure and experience that support his current development. Leeds’ interest is not accidental.
The timing of their move reflects a clear understanding of the opportunity in front of them. Mexes fits the profile of a high-upside target, and acting gives Leeds a chance to secure him before that window closes.
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