Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly set to reject a new contract in favor of a move abroad, according to The Guardian. The 19-year-old midfielder has two years remaining on his current deal, and the Red Devils had been in negotiations to extend his stay at Old Trafford.
Mainoo made his Manchester United debut in 2023 and has featured 60 times for the club. The academy graduate scored his first goal for the club in January during an FA Cup fixture and later netted the winning goal against Manchester City in the FA Cup final at Wembley. His impressive performances earned him a call-up to the England national team in March 2024. He was part of Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad and started in the final against Spain, where England suffered defeat.
Under new manager Rúben Amorim, Mainoo was initially a key part of the squad. However, since suffering a calf injury, he has struggled for playing time. The youngster currently earns around £20,000 per week, but his representatives are reportedly seeking a salary that better reflects his importance to the team.
Mainoo was linked with a move to Chelsea during the January transfer window, but nothing materialized. With recent reports suggesting his desire to play abroad, such a transfer now appears unlikely. However, an agreement could still be reached to extend his stay at Manchester United.
If Mainoo does decide to leave, Manchester United’s board may welcome the move, as it would allow them to secure a significant transfer fee. With just two years remaining on his contract, the club could look to sell him this summer if he refuses to extend, as his market value would drop significantly once he enters the final 18 months of his deal. As of now, no clubs have been strongly linked with a move for the England international.
Manchester United fans have expressed frustration over the club’s management, particularly since Sir Jim Ratcliffe took control of the sporting operations. The potential sale of homegrown talent like Mainoo would likely be unpopular among supporters. Ratcliffe has publicly acknowledged the financial challenges at the club since becoming a minority owner, leading to cost-cutting measures, including staff layoffs.