Manchester United have agreed an eleventh-hour deal for Sam Mather and Louis Jackson to join Tranmere Rovers on loan.

The Manchester Evening News reported two weeks ago that a move for Mather would depend on his fitness and a late deal was arranged for the youngster on deadline day.

Mather was absent for three straight Under-21 games across November, December and January due to injury and has impressively scored three goals since his return from injury.

READ MORE: Rashford, Antony and Dorgu - Manchester United's full list of ins and outs after transfer window

READ MORE: How Manchester United staff reacted to decision on Alejandro Garnacho in January window

The 20-year-old has outgrown Under-21 football and joining Tranmere on a straight loan for the remainder of the season - there is no option included - will be helpful to his development. Jackson has also joined Tranmere and the United youngsters will look to progress in League Two.

In August, Mather signed a new three-year contract with the club that will expire in the summer of 2027. His previous deal expired in June 2025 and he was given fresh terms on the back of a promising season, and being involved on the pre-season tour of the United States.

The forward was a key player for the U21s in the first half of 2023/24, scoring six goals in nine games, and spent time with Rochdale on a flexi-loan for the second half of the campaign.

United created a flexi-loan system in 2023, which allows youngsters to gain senior experience whilst remaining involved in the day-to-day environment at Carrington, and Mather scored twice in 10 appearances for Rochdale, who finished in mid-table in the National League.

Mather was increasingly present in United first-team training before signing for Rochdale on loan and was involved with the senior squad in sessions at Carrington again before his injury.

Mather also started every game in the successful 2021/22 FA Youth Cup campaign.