Kobbie Mainoo’s status at Manchester United is no longer as secure as previously thought, with reports suggesting that Chelsea could capitalize on stalled contract negotiations.
Mainoo is still operating under the terms of his February 2023 contract, valued at around £20,000 per week, and talks for a new, more lucrative deal have hit a roadblock. This has led to speculation that Chelsea is in the lead to secure the talented young midfielder.
According to the Daily Mail, Mainoo is seeking a new weekly salary closer to £200,000. However, United is looking to lower their wage bill, causing Mainoo to explore other potential offers. The Manchester Evening News even suggests that the 19-year-old is dissatisfied with United’s initial contract offer.
While Mainoo was previously considered untouchable, The Athletic reports that this is no longer the case. Although there is no active intention to sell him, Mainoo’s status as a product of the academy means that his transfer could bring in significant profit, which is crucial in the current era of financial regulations.
Mainoo, along with Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund, could potentially be sold for the right offer, although Manchester United is not actively seeking to part ways with any of these players.
The Guardian also includes Rasmus Hojlund in the list of players who are no longer considered untouchable. The club’s new co-owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, sees player sales as essential for effective club management and is open to suitable offers for any player.
Even recent signings like Leny Yoro, Noussair Mazraoui, Matthijs de Ligt, Manuel Ugarte, and Joshua Zirkzee could be available for transfer at the right price, reflecting United’s commitment to avoiding financial sanctions rather than actively looking to offload key assets.