Manchester United’s stance on Kobbie Mainoo’s possible transfer is likely to infuriate fans.
In recent years, United have been crying out for a technically proficient midfielder capable of evading the press and playing between the lines. As usual, the club’s famed academy stepped up and delivered Mainoo, who became a regular under Erik ten Hag just a year after making his senior debut.
His composed performances also earned him his first major international tournament call-up with England. Gareth Southgate handed him four starts at the Euros. However, Ruben Amorim’s arrival last winter pushed Mainoo down the pecking order at Old Trafford.
Now, Amorim’s decision to leave the England international as an unused substitute in United’s first two games of the new Premier League season has thrown the youngster’s future at the club into doubt.
Mainoo frustrated under Amorim
According to The Athletic, Mainoo has been left “deeply frustrated” by not featuring in either of United’s matches, so much so that he is now open to leaving his boyhood club before the transfer window closes.
United, meanwhile, have been considering the possibility of selling him all summer.
The report states: “United’s summer-long search for a midfielder has focused more heavily on identifying an alternative to Bruno Fernandes. Somebody who would play alongside either Casemiro or Manuel Ugarte. One who would, in effect, replace Mainoo within the squad, as per Amorim’s latest description of his role.”
Amorim has frequently raised question marks over Mainoo’s defensive ability and his mobility. The academy graduate seemingly worked on his physique over the summer as he looked very sharp in the middle of the park in pre-season. Still, it seems Amorim remains unconvinced.
Man United prepared to sell Mainoo on the cheap
The situation has also impacted United’s valuation of the dynamic midfielder.
It is understood Chelsea were quoted a £70 million asking price when they enquired about his availability in January. Now, there is a belief United would “accept around £45m, potentially even less as the deadline draws near.”
Mainoo’s current contract runs out in the summer of 2027, and the prospect of any deal “looks remote”. It is believed Mainoo has no intention of renewing, given his situation under Amorim. As such, his value is likely to plummet even further if the United head coach continues to overlook him.
Apart from Chelsea, Bayern Munich also explored the possibility of a move. Bayer Leverkusen, who are now led by Ten Hag, would have liked to push for his signature, but a deal was thought to be out of their reach financially.
Tottenham Hotspur have been strongly linked with Mainoo, as Thomas Frank is looking to add “a young, dynamic midfielder” to his ranks.
However, Mainoo is believed to “prefer moving to the continent rather than staying in the Premier League.”
Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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Vishal Singh
Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!
