Manchester United add 16-year-old wonderkid to first-team training amid interest from rivals

Bendito Mantato trained with Manchester United's first-team at Carrington on Wednesday, despite being just 16 years old.

Mantato is one of the highest-rated talents in the academy and the Manchester Evening News revealed last week that he is attracting interest from rivals in the Premier League.

United are hopeful Mantato will commit to a future at Old Trafford and sign professional terms when he turns 17 next year, but he is currently considering his options.

Sources have indicated that United would receive a six-figure sum in compensation if Mantato was to switch clubs, as they have been responsible for his development to this stage.

ALSO READ: United face transfer battle for Mantato

ALSO READ: United make decision on Mainoo contract

However, Mantato was included in first-team training at Carrington on Wednesday and it's thought that can only help to show the youngster there is a pathway at the club.

Erik ten Hag has handed debuts to Charlie McNeill, Kobbie Mainoo, Dan Gore, Willy Kambwala and Omari Forson during his time as manager and Mainoo is now a regular starter.

Mantato can play at left-back and on the right wing, and his style has led to comparisons with Arsenal's Bukayo Saka, who started his career as a defender before moving forward.

Youngsters from the academy have been visible in a number of first-team training sessions this season and they are included in sessions when extra numbers are required.

The opportunity to train with senior players is considered an important part of their development and Mantato, 16, Harry Amass, 16, and Amir Ibragimov, 15, have taken part in first-team sessions over the last 18 months despite being at such an early stage of their careers.

Mantato joined United's academy aged