Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly set to reject a new contract offer from the club in favor of pursuing a move abroad.
Despite being sidelined for a month due to a calf injury, the 19-year-old has already made a name for himself as a key player for United, earning ten senior England caps and scoring in last summer’s FA Cup final.
Although Mainoo has become a fan favorite and is highly regarded by the coaching staff, his future at the club has been uncertain for some time. As part of their ongoing financial strategy, Manchester United has considered selling academy products like Mainoo to generate quick revenue.
The young midfielder was reportedly available for sale during the January transfer window, with Chelsea showing interest, though no club met his £70m asking price.
Now, as United prepares to offer Mainoo a new contract, the teenager is reportedly determined to pursue a move abroad, with no specific club named.
Currently one of the club’s lowest earners at £20,000 per week, Mainoo is said to be seeking a salary closer to £180,000 per week, further complicating contract negotiations.
If United is forced to sell Mainoo, they are expected to maintain their £70m price tag, even with just two years remaining on his contract by the summer.
Despite this, United remains hopeful that an agreement can still be reached. Ruben Amorim, the head coach of a potential suitor, has expressed a desire to keep Mainoo, praising his “special” talent, but whether he will have the final say in the teenager’s future remains uncertain.
