‘There’s work going on’: Carrick confirms Man Utd edging ‘closer’ to deal for £43.5m midfielder

Michael Carrick has confirmed that Manchester United are edging ‘closer’ to an agreement with Kobbie Mainoo over a new deal.As things stand, the fan-favourite star would be leaving Old Trafford as a free agent next summer.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYKobbie Mainoo: The state of playShould he agree to what’s being offered, it’s thought Mainoo would put pen to paper on a contract until 2031, plus the option of an additional 12 months, ensuring his future is well and truly secured in M16.Remarkably, it comes just a matter of months after he was on the verge of leaving United to embark on a new venture elsewhere, when he was continuously left out of the side by Ruben Amorim.Reports at the time were even suggesting the 20-year-old would consider parting ways with his boyhood club permanently, with Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt urging Mainoo to join Chelsea, where he’d have been actually utilised and appreciated for his talents.Thankfully, Carrick put matters right when he took the reins, and instantly restored the Carrington graduate, who’s valued at £43.5 million by Transfermarkt, to the starting XI alongside Casemiro. Appearances Starts Minutes played 10 10 886 (Mainoo’s record under Carrick)United working on Mainoo and other deals, says CarrickWhen addressing the media ahead of tonight’s clash with Leeds United, the interim boss was quizzed on the ongoing talks with Mainoo and his camp. He said: “There’s certainly work going on in terms of what can be done in trying to move forward in improving the squad.” Manchester United are “getting closer” to agreeing a new contract with Kobbie Mainoo, says Michael Carrick https://t.co/jTLpoiPFAQ — Mark Critchley (@mjcritchley) April 12, 2026Last week, it was announced that Harry Maguire had extended his terms until 2027, as he would’ve been on his way out in just two months’ time had a deal not been finalised.It means his Red Devils tenure will exceed the eight-year mark – potentially even nine if the club activates his one-year option at the end of 2026/2027.