Kobbie Mainoo: Man United’s latest move casts fresh doubt over midfield sensation’s Old Trafford future – Man United News And Transfer News

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While Manchester United continue their rebuild with other impactful signings, they must also ensure they retain their brightest young talent.

One of those talents at risk of leaving is Kobbie Mainoo.

With no European football this season and an early Carabao Cup exit, United have had fewer fixtures to rotate their squad. As a result, Mainoo has been one of the “biggest” casualties.

He has struggled for opportunities to prove his worth, with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro consistently preferred as the midfield pivot.

United boss Ruben Amorim hinted that Mainoo is Fernandes’ alternative. Yet, given the brilliance of the Portuguese playmaker, it is understandable that the youngster finds it difficult to dislodge him from United’s starting XI.

So far, Mainoo has managed only 138 minutes of Premier League action, despite United playing over 990 minutes in total.

Unsurprisingly, frustration has begun to creep in. Reports suggest that, just as he did last summer, he may once again push for a loan move in January.

INEOS’ intriguing stance on Mainoo’s future

Amid uncertainty over whether he will be allowed to leave, a fresh update has emerged regarding the midfielder’s long‑term future.

“They’ve been in talks with Mainoo for a while now over a new contract. Suggestions are now that contract talks have been put on hold because of his uncertain future at Old Trafford,” revealed Peter O’Rourke in his Football Insider column.

O’Rourke added, “For United, on their part, they don’t really want to lose Kobbie Mainoo, and that’s why they blocked the move in the summer window. Obviously, I think they’d be reluctant to let him go in January as well because United want to be competing in that top four, if they can.”

A tricky situation and motivation for suitors

Mainoo’s situation is undeniably tricky. He is not playing regularly, yet the club insist they want him to stay. At the same time, they have paused contract extension talks, sending mixed signals.

Will Mainoo truly believe he can make it at United? He is bound to question his future at the club.

INEOS, meanwhile, are playing a dangerous game. Despite his struggles to break into Amorim’s starting XI, Mainoo is a player they should have tied down to a long‑term deal already.

Yes, his current contract runs until 2027, with United holding the option to extend for another year. But offering him improved terms now would not only demonstrate faith in his talent, it would also strengthen United’s bargaining power should they eventually decide to sell.

United’s latest move might leave Mainoo unsure about his future with the club. It exposes the club’s doubts about keeping him, doubts that his suitors will be eager to exploit.

Featured image George Wood via Getty Images

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