Chelsea and Manchester United are both monitoring Tijuana midfielder Gilberto Mora, according to reports emerging from the FIFA World Cup. The 17-year-old has impressed during Mexico’s campaign, making a significant impact after making his debut against Ecuador in the round of 32.
Mora is the youngest player at the tournament and has quickly become a focal point for Mexico, having previously starred for his nation at youth levels, including a starting role in their Gold Cup victory last year. Head coach Javier Aguirre has carefully managed the teenager’s workload, initially utilising him as a substitute before giving him a full debut against Czechia, a position he retained for the match against Ecuador.
The playmaker has been attracting attention from European clubs since breaking into the Tijuana first team at the age of 15, but his age has previously prevented a move. However, Tijuana recently offered Mora a new “historic” contract, negotiated by agent Rafaela Pimenta, which includes a release clause to facilitate a future transfer. TNT Sports Mexico journalist Rodrigo Lara believes a move will occur in January, stating, “In six months, during the winter transfer window, Gilberto Mora is going to take off, he’s going to compete, he’s going to be a Premier League player.”
De Telegraaf reports that alongside Chelsea and Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool are also interested in Mora’s services, with Barcelona and Real Madrid also linked in recent months. While a move to a top Premier League club could be challenging for the 5ft 6in midfielder, given his physical development, a transfer to the Netherlands or Portugal is also considered a possibility. Aguirre acknowledged Mora’s fatigue during the Ecuador match, highlighting the need for continued physical development, but praised his courage and potential. A move to a major European league appears increasingly likely, offering Mora the opportunity to further showcase his talent on a larger stage.
