Arsenal eyeing shock move for 20-yo United star, Ineos will “not stand in his way” – report

Kobbie Mainoo’s situation at Manchester United has been the subject of intense speculation heading into the winter transfer window. Over the last years 18 months, United have snapped up two highly-rated players from Arsenal. Striker Chido Obi moved to Manchester last year and central defender Ayden Heaven joined the Red Devils in the January window.  Now, Arsenal have entered the fray for the United academy product, who appears disillusioned under Ruben Amorim. Arsenal eyeing a move for Kobbie Mainoo Kobbie Mainoo requested a temporary move away from United during the summer transfer window. However, the club’s hierarchy refused to let him leave amid concerns over the side’s midfield depth. Still, Amorim has barely used Mainoo’s services, as he continues to rely on the ageing Casemiro to shield United’s backline. The 20-year-old is still waiting for his first league start this season.  According to Defensa Central, Arsenal and Napoli are “very interested” in Mainoo. Arsenal’s midfield seems stacked already, featuring the likes of Declan Rice, Martín Zubimendi, and Mikel Merino. Accordingly, a move to north London is unlikely to help Mainoo, who is seeking an important role ahead of the World Cup next summer.  CompetitionPlayedGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Premier League7—-138′ EFL Cup1-1–90′ Total8-1–228′ Source: Transfermarkt Napoli, meanwhile, have been on his tail for some time, having made an unsuccessful attempt to sign him last summer.  Real Madrid need to act decisively The Spanish outlet claim Real Madrid are also closely monitoring the England international, as they are open to strengthening their midfield mid-season. He has reportedly been on their radar since his academy days at Carrington. It is understood Mainoo wants to depart Old Trafford in January, and United are not going to “stand in his way” if they receive a loan proposal.   Defensa Central, however, underline that Los Blancos would have to act quickly amid interest from Arsenal and Napoli.  Featured image Alex Livesey via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!