Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly considering rejecting Manchester United’s contract extension offer, with sources suggesting he may be eyeing a move abroad. Despite having two years left on his current deal, the club is open to selling the talented midfielder, valuing him at approximately £70 million to bolster their finances.
Mainoo’s Rise at Manchester United
Born in Stockport, Mainoo has been part of United’s setup since the age of six. He made his first-team debut in 2023 at just 17 and has since earned 10 England caps while making 60 appearances for the Red Devils. Despite lengthy negotiations over a new deal, an agreement has yet to be reached.
Although Chelsea has been linked to the midfielder, a move to another Premier League club does not currently appear to be in his plans. Instead, Mainoo is said to be considering opportunities overseas.
Contract Stalemate and Potential Sale
Mainoo currently earns around £20,000 per week, and his representatives are pushing for a significant pay rise to reflect his crucial role in the squad. While Manchester United remains hopeful of securing his long-term commitment, there is growing concern over his future at the club.
Should he refuse to sign an extension, selling Mainoo would provide a financial boost for United, especially as they seek funds for new signings. However, letting go of a homegrown talent amid Ruben Amorim’s squad rebuild would be a tough pill for fans to swallow.
Since Mainoo emerged through the club’s academy, any sale would count as pure profit for United. This is a key factor in their decision-making, particularly as a player’s market value typically decreases as their contract nears its end. So far, there has been no official contact with other clubs regarding a transfer.
Amorim’s Dilemma: Where Does Mainoo Fit?
Mainoo was a key player under Ruben Amorim before suffering a calf injury in February. However, Amorim later expressed doubts about his best position on the field, noting his struggles in a defensive midfield role.
“He was struggling a lot defensively as a midfielder. Now, playing more as a No. 10, he’s more comfortable on the ball near the box, where his quick connections make him very effective,” Amorim stated in January.
Despite this, the coach has praised Mainoo’s progress, describing him as “really, really good” but acknowledging that he is still a work in progress with enormous potential for further development.
What’s Next for Mainoo?
As the transfer saga unfolds, all eyes are on whether Mainoo will commit to a new deal or seek a fresh challenge elsewhere. With Manchester United’s financial needs and his rising market value, a high-profile transfer could be on the horizon.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on this Kobbie Mainoo developing story!
