Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo is facing a make-or-break moment in his young career ahead of a summer of change at Old Trafford
Matheus Cunha, Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire of Manchester United celebrate during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford
Kobbie Mainoo's future at Manchester United has completely changed in the wake of Michael Carrick's arrival(Image: Zohaib Alam - MUFC, Manchester United via Getty Images)
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A promising beginning under Michael Carrick has given Manchester United renewed optimism about what the second half of the season might bring. United secured a 2-0 derby win over Manchester City in Carrick's first match as interm manager, with several players delivering standout performances.
Kobbie Mainoo was among those who shone, producing his finest showing of the campaign so far. This marked a significant improvement after being largely overlooked under Carrick's predecessor, Ruben Amorim.
The youngster's absence from the first team had led to widespread speculation about his departure after contract negotiations stalled. However, there's now fresh information regarding the player's circumstances as his future begins to crystallise.
With just a week remaining in the January transfer window, United's opportunities to strengthen the squad are rapidly diminishing. examines the key stories surrounding Old Trafford as the winter market enters its busiest period.
Mainoo situation takes a turn
Having recently appeared destined to leave Old Trafford, Mainoo's outlook has been completely transformed under Carrick's leadership. Following just one match with the Champions League-winner at the helm, the club are prepared to begin negotiations with their 20-year-old midfield talent.
Mainoo's existing contract runs until 2027, with United holding an option to extend for another year. However, his wages are extremely modest compared to many team-mates, currently standing at just £25,000 per week.
Mason Mount, Kobbie Mainoo and Michael Carrick walk off after the Premier League match between Manchester United and Manchester City
Mainoo looked like a new man in his first game under Michael Carrick(Image: Getty)
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Sky Sports News revealed the player's salary will be increased to align more closely with the squad average if fresh terms are agreed. This should help prevent any desire the player might have to depart after understandably growing frustrated with his opportunities under Amorim.
After failing to start a single league match under Amorim this season, Mainoo made a crucial return at home to City last weekend. The England international demonstrated to the dismissed manager precisely what he'd been missing as he contributed to a memorable victory for the Reds.
Mainoo had been attracting attention from clubs such as Napoli and Chelsea as recently as this month, but the possibility of a departure now appears significantly reduced. It seems the more opportunities he gets to excel under Carrick, the more questions will be raised about Amorim's reluctance to select him.
Casemiro in high demand
On the same day news broke that United were prepared to progress discussions with Mainoo, Casemiro confirmed his departure at season's end. The veteran midfielder has confirmed he will leave this summer despite having the option of an additional year, and it appears he will have plenty of interest.
"I will carry Manchester United with me throughout my entire life," the South American said on Thursday. "From the first day that I walked out at this beautiful stadium, I felt the passion of Old Trafford and the love that I now share with our supporters for this special club.
Manchester United's Casemiro waves to the crowd
Casemiro is wanted by numerous clubs as he prefers to leave Manchester United(Image: PA)
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"It is not time to say goodbye; there are many more memories to create during the next four months. We still have a lot to fight for together; my complete focus will, as always, remain on giving my everything to help our club to succeed."
That competitive spirit is exactly what's drawing attention from potential suitors as he approaches free agency. According to the Daily Mail, Major League Soccer heavyweights LA Galaxy are among those interested, while clubs from Saudi Arabia and Brazil are also believed to be monitoring the situation.
MLS could prove particularly appealing as franchises look to build on the buzz of the FIFA World Cup. That said, Brazilian and American clubs would find it difficult to compete with the financial power available in Saudi Arabia, with Casemiro currently United's highest-paid player earning £375,000 per week.