Manchester United give new contract to forward ahead of USA pre-season tour

Manchester United youngster Ethan Ennis has signed a new contract with the club.

Ennis' previous deal with United expired in June 2025 and the Manchester Evening News understands he has signed fresh terms to extend his stay beyond next summer.

The 19-year-old played the second half of the opening pre-season friendly against Rosenborg, testing their goalkeeper with a powerful shot, and was introduced at half-time again last weekend against Rangers. Ennis is also set to be included in the United squad for the USA tour.

Ennis began his career with Liverpool, but he was signed by United in the summer of 2021 and was the standout signing for the academy in an otherwise quiet window.

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The youngster signed his first professional contract immediately after celebrating his 17th birthday and only the most highly regarded academy talents are given pro deals so quickly.

However, disaster struck in August 2022 when it was confirmed he'd ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his knee. Ennis faced a long road to recovery after that injury and made his first appearance after a 14-month lay-off for the Under-21s against Fulham at the end of October.

There were high hopes for Ennis when United signed him from rivals Liverpool and his minutes were carefully handled last season, which helped him return to full fitness.

Ennis' physicality was noticeable in friendlies against Rosenborg and Rangers last week and his professionalism at Carrington is thought to have impressed academy staff.

The Chesire-born lad scored 10 goals in 19 appearances for United's Under-18s in 2021/22, his first full