Manchester United and Kobbie Mainoo may part ways in the upcoming summer transfer window - and United have decided how much they will request for the midfielder if he does indeed depart. Despite ongoing contract negotiations since March 2024, an agreement has yet to be reached between the player and the club. According to the Manchester Evening News, there is a real possibility that Mainoo could depart this summer unless a compromise can be found in the contract talks.
While fans are hoping for a resolution, it's believed that a separation might ultimately be in the best interests of both parties. Mainoo's season has been inconsistent, and he hasn't found a fixed position in Ruben Amorim's formation. The manager has utilised Mainoo in various roles, including as a midfield pivot, a No.10, and even tested him as a striker against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford in February.
How Mainoo fits into Amorim's plans will be evaluated before a decision is made this summer. United would demand a fee of around £70million for the promising young midfielder.
Given the club's need to comply with profit and sustainability rules (PSR), the sale of academy graduates, which counts as 'total profit', could also influence Mainoo's future.
Amorim may envisage Mainoo's future in one of the No. 10 roles, putting him in direct competition with Alejandro Garnacho, Amad, Joshua Zirkzee, and Mason Mount.
Amorim observed in January, following a Europa League match against FSCB: "Kobbie's position today, we had time to understand the players. He was struggling a lot defending, as a midfielder, now more as a No.10, you can feel he's playing on the ball nearer the box and near the box is really good with his small connections."
Erik ten Hag has praised Mainoo as the "perfect midfielder". The 19-year-old showcased his skills in a central role for England during the European Championship last summer, earning Gareth Southgate's admiration as an "exceptional" talent, with the England manager noting that the country "hadn't really had a player like him until now."
Mainoo's impressive breakthrough season at United in 2023/2024 reached its climax when he scored the winning goal in the FA Cup final against Manchester City. Those familiar with his development at Carrington believe he possesses the leadership qualities to become a future United captain, making a potential departure highly contentious.
Currently, Mainoo is focused on recovering from an injury rather than his future.
This story first appeared on the MEN