Kobbie Mainoo has been linked with a deadline-day move away from Old Trafford
Kobbie Mainoo has been linked with a deadline-day move away from Old Trafford (Image: GETTY)
Manchester United have reportedly decided against letting Kobbie Mainoo leave the club on deadline day. Despite limited opportunities under Ruben Amorim this season and interest from Napoli, it seems a loan move for the 20-year-old midfielder is off the table.
According to Fabrizio Romano, United's top brass are not prepared to let Mainoo depart today. The young talent remains an integral part of the Red Devils' plans for the ongoing season. Ruben Amorim was unequivocal about Mainoo's future ahead of their victory over Burnley at the weekend.
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He stated: "I want Kobbie to stay. He needs to fight for his place and we need Kobbie, so that is not going to change.
"I understand that the players that are not playing in this moment are disappointed. Everyone will have the same opportunity to play. You have to fight during the week."
Mainoo broke into United's first-team squad during the 2022/23 season and has since racked up 74 appearances, netting seven goals. However, he has only featured once in the Premier League this term.
United chiefs have reportedly told Mainoo that he is going nowhere
United chiefs have reportedly told Mainoo that he is going nowhere (Image: GETTY)
With two years remaining on his contract at Old Trafford, the club's hierarchy are eager to secure him on a new deal. However, as yet, no agreement has been reached.
While Mainoo appears to be staying for now, the same cannot be said for several of his teammates. Alejandro Garnacho has already sealed a £40m switch to Premier League rivals Chelsea.
Rasmus Hojlund is attracting interest from Napoli and a deal could be finalised before tonight's 7pm deadline. Meanwhile, negotiations continue over Antony's departure from Old Trafford.
Real Betis are eager to bring back the Brazilian winger following his successful loan spell last season. Terms have been agreed for a €25m (£21.65m) permanent move.
In terms of incoming players, United are still keen to bolster their goalkeeping options. They have pinpointed Royal Antwerp stopper Senne Lammens as a top target and have agreed a £18.2m fee with the Belgian club.
This has led United to drop their interest in Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez, who now looks set to remain in the Midlands for the foreseeable future. He has only played in one of Villa's first three Premier League matches of the campaign.