Kobbie Mainoo and Ruben Amorim at Elland Road
Credit: Manh Tung
Josh Edwards
Sat 20 December 2025 10:10, UK
Leeds United could be set to step up their efforts to land Kobbie Mainoo in January.
Daniel Farke is hoping to keep Leeds in the Premier League this season, and his ability to do that will hinge largely on the transfer business they can do in January.
MOT Leeds News revealed that Brennan Johnson is a target for Leeds as they look to strengthen their attacking options, but a new midfielder is also likely to be on the agenda.
After the latest update from Old Trafford, the Whites may have the perfect opportunity to find that addition, in the form of Mainoo.
Kobbie Mainoo
Credit: Imago
Leeds wanted to sign Mainoo on loan in the summer
Mainoo was supposed to be the next big thing in England, and based on his early performances at Man United, he looked destined to live up to that.
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However, the arrival of Ruben Amorim changed that, and Leeds wanted to sign Mainoo on loan in the summer as a result of his lack of gametime.
That deal failed to materialise, but now the Daily Mail have reported that the Englishman is at “breaking point” at Old Trafford, with Mainoo seeing no future at Man United.
It’s claimed that Napoli lead the race to sign him should the door for an exit open, which is looking increasingly more likely as January approaches.
The report adds that Mainoo would consider a loan exit with an option to leave permanently, which would suit Leeds down to the ground.
Amorim has defended his decision over Mainoo
Mainoo has yet to start a Premier League game this season, showcasing just how far he has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford.
That hasn’t gone down well with Man United supporters, though Amnorim has continued to back his own decision against playing him.
Earlier in December, the Red Devils boss said: “I understand what you are saying, you love Kobbie, he starts for England.
“But that doesn’t mean that I need to put Kobbie [in] when I feel that I shouldn’t put Kobbie [in], so it’s my decision.”
Given how much talent and potential Mainoo has to offer, finding an escape route is going to be crucial in January, and Leeds will be perfectly placed to be able to offer him that.
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