Manchester United are set for a major squad overhaul this summer after a disastrous 2024-25 campaign.
While United are already making desperate attempts to bolster their side by adding quality players, the offloading of a few stars is also expected to balance their financial books.
One name unexpectedly caught in the uncertainty is that of rising star Kobbie Mainoo.
Speaking to The United Stand, reliable journalist Ben Jacobs said: “My expectation is that Kobbie Mainoo stays at Man United and signs a new deal.
“The player, despite links with Chelsea, is not looking for a move away.”
United must not sell Kobbie Mainoo
The 20-year-old rose through the ranks and became a regular member of the senior squad under former manager Erik ten Hag.
His place has come under scrutiny since the arrival of Ruben Amorim.
The Portuguese head coach fields his side in a 3-4-2-1 format.
The manager has admitted that while Mainoo possesses clear technical quality, he must sharpen his defensive instincts to command one of the double-pivot roles.
Amorim also tried Mainoo as one of the number 10, allowing the young prodigy to play with attacking freedom and show his flair.
Mainoo showed glimpses of brilliance in that role, but his lack of explosive pace limited his overall effectiveness.
The youngster was reportedly “unhappy” with the initial terms United had offered for a new deal.
He is currently tied to a deal that runs until 2027, with the club holding an option to extend by a further year.
He is looking for a significant increase on his modest £25,000 per week paycheck.
Mainoo undeniably deserves a pay raise, but offering him an inflated deal could unsettle the wage structure and spark tension in the dressing room.
Stats from Capology.com