Manchester United were rocked by the news of Kobbie Mainoo looking to leave his boyhood club with both parties struggling to find common ground during contract negotiations.
The Englishman’s camp was reportedly asking for as much as £180,000-a-week to reflect his status in the first team, but INEOS, who are currently trimming the wage bill, have no intention of paying as much.
Which is when reports started to emerge that a summer exit was on the cards and while there is considerable interest from Chelsea, the Carrington graduate was eyeing a move abroad.
Inter Milan and Real Madrid were named as two possible destinations for the 19-year-old who has played all across the midfield and even up top by Ruben Amorim with Mainoo yet to nail down a regular spot.
Mainoo’s future
The head coach reportedly feels the England international does not have the requisite fitness levels to operate in his 3-4-3 system, adding to the noise surrounding a summer separation.
But Givemesport have some good news on that front. They have revealed that the midfielder wants to stay at Old Trafford and will reject the lure of moving to a Champions League team provided terms can be agreed.
The Red Devils feel the Stockport-born star is as valuable as Amad, who recently agreed a new contract with the club. He is now getting paid £120,000-per week, a rise from his previous wages of £28,846 (via capology).
The United No 37 currently earns around £25,000 gross per week with United looking to bring him up to parity with the Ivorian, a fair reflection of his rise from an Academy wonderkid to a bonafide first-team star.
If he is offered the same wages, it will reflect a 380 percent growth or almost five times his current wages.
New contract offer
“Kobbie Mainoo remains committed to Manchester United and is open to signing a new contract to remain among head coach Ruben Amorim’s options for the long-term, despite growing rumours involving Europe’s elite, sources have told GIVEMESPORT.
“Reports have previously suggested a potential 80 per cent pay rise to £180,000-a-week, but this is seen as unrealistic as the Red Devils looks to restructure their wage bill.
“Instead, they are expected to present an offer well in excess of £100,000-a-week, but closely in line with a deal recently handed to Amad Diallo. Sources say it would be a figure they believe fairly reflects the England international’s rapid rise and growing importance to the team.”
The new offer seems quite apt and one Mainoo should agree to. But whether his camp push for more remains to be seen.
The United faithful love him and surely Amorim will find a place for such a talented teen in his squad. Now the ball is in the player’s court.
Feature image Glyn Kirk via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
