Supporters will probably be enraged at Manchester United’s position on Kobbie Mainoo’s potential transfer.
United has been clamoring for a technically skilled midfield player who can play between the lines and avoid the press in previous years. As usual, the club’s renowned academy came through with Mainoo, who, within a year of making his senior debut, established himself as a regular under Erik ten Hag.
He also received his first England call-up at a big international event for his calm performances. At the Euros, Gareth Southgate gave him four starts. But when Ruben Amorim arrived at Old Trafford last winter, Mainoo was demoted.
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
The Athletic claims that Mainoo is “deeply frustrated” that he hasn’t played in either of United’s games and is now willing to leave his boyhood club before the transfer window shuts.
In the meantime, United has spent the entire summer contemplating the prospect of selling him.
According to the report: “United has placed a greater emphasis on finding a replacement for Bruno Fernandes during the summer transfer window. Someone who would play with Manuel Ugarte or Casemiro. According to Amorim’s most recent explanation of his responsibilities, he would essentially take Mainoo’s spot in the squad.
Amorim has repeatedly expressed doubts about Mainoo’s mobility and defensive prowess. The academy graduate was extremely well-groomed in the middle of the park during preseason, suggesting that he worked on his physique during the summer. However, it appears that Amorim is still not convinced.
Man United prepared to sell Mainoo on the cheap
The explosive midfielder’s value at United has also been affected by the circumstances.
When Chelsea inquired about his availability in January, they reportedly received a quote of £70 million. As the deadline approaches, it is thought that United will “accept around £45m, possibly even less.”
Any settlement “looks remote” as Mainoo’s existing contract expires in the summer of 2027. It is assumed that, considering his circumstances under Amorim, Mainoo has no plans to renew. As a result, if the United head coach keeps ignoring him, his value will probably fall even lower.
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.”
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