Kobbie Mainoo is yet to commit his to Old Trafford (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
Manchester United have reopened negotiations with Kobbie Mainoo over a new contract as they look to secure his future at Old Trafford, according to reports.
The 19-year-old midfielder, who is currently on a £20,000-a-week deal until 2027, has been in prolonged discussions with the club over improved terms.
Talks were previously put on hold as Man United, under the influence of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos, focused on restructuring their wage bill. However, with Chelsea reportedly interested in prising Mainoo away, the Premier League giants are now pushing to agree on a new deal that reflects his growing importance.
“It’s MY fault Salah and De Bruyne left Chelsea…” – which Blues legend made this HUGE admission?
According to the Daily Mail, Mainoo is seeking a significant pay rise, with demands reaching around £180,000 per week plus bonuses. Given his emergence as a first-team regular and England international, the young midfielder’s representative believes he should be compensated accordingly.
The Red Devils, however, are keen to strike a balance between rewarding their academy graduate and maintaining financial stability.
While there’s hope that Mainoo will commit his future to the club, a potential sale would be a financial boost, given that any transfer fee would count as pure profit in the books. The club reportedly values him between £70 million and £80 million.
Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim hopes to keep Chelsea away from young star
Although the teenager has yet to register a goal or an assist in his 18 Premier League appearances this season, there’s no denying his raw talent. If given the right environment to thrive, he has the potential to become a world-class player. The question, however, is whether that will happen at Manchester United.
Earlier this year, it was reported by the same outlet that Chelsea were looking to make a move for the young talent, particularly since he’s been unable to reach an agreement with Man United over a new contract, with his current deal running through to the summer of 2027.
At present, Mainoo is one of the club’s lowest earners, reportedly bringing in just £20,000 per week, according to Capology.
Red Devils boss Ruben Amorim is said to be keen on keeping Mainoo as part of his long-term plans. Though he initially struggled to fit the young midfielder into his system after taking over from Erik ten Hag in November, it’s believed that now recognises his talent and wants him to stay at the club.
