Ex-Manchester United midfielder Lee Sharpe says he “can see” the logic behind his former club selling Kobbie Mainoo to Chelsea.
Reports suggest that the Blues could snap up the 19-year-old this summer, with the Red Devils needing to raise funds and, speaking exclusively to ChelseaNews.com (courtesy of BetBrain), Sharpe said there are multiple reasons why a transfer could be sanctioned:
“I can see the reason why they [United] would want to let him go. Probably a couple of the factors that I’ve just mentioned are his athleticism and pace around the pitch, he’s probably a little bit limited compared to his ability on the ball, which I think is outrageously good.”
“So I could see why they would, why they would let him go, and because he’s a homegrown player, they would get more benefit of his transfer fee than if they paid someone already for him.”
How much would Mainoo cost?
It is believed that United would want at least £70m for the England international. Some may see that as an excessive amount.
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However, you have to consider the fact that Chelsea did splash out £58m on Romeo Lavia at the start of last season. The Belgian was a lot less experienced than Mainoo when he was signed.
Due to Lavia’s injury record, there are reports suggesting that Mainoo is actually being eyed as the Chelsea midfielder’s replacement. How accurate those claims are, though, it isn’t known.
Chelsea may not be the player’s preferred destination
The Guardian have suggested that Mainoo is minded to reject a new contract from United but his preference would be to move abroad if he leaves Old Trafford.
Of course, if he is made available for transfer this summer, his destination may well be determined by who is willing to match United’s asking price.
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