Club Moves to Secure Young Midfielder’s Future
Manchester United are set to begin negotiations with Kobbie Mainoo over a new and improved contract according to Sky Sports News. The 20-year-old academy graduate has only 18 months left on his current deal with an option for an additional year.
Initial contact has already been made with Mainoo’s representatives with plans to discuss terms that would align his wages more closely with his growing importance to the team. Mainoo’s current salary remains among the lowest in the first-team squad despite his breakthrough status.
Under previous manager Ruben Amorim Mainoo did not start a single Premier League game this season. Interest from clubs like Napoli emerged with reports of a possible loan move for more playing time but United rejected any such idea viewing him as central to their long-term plans.
The situation changed dramatically with Michael Carrick’s arrival. Mainoo started immediately in Carrick’s first game and delivered an impressive display in the 2-0 Manchester derby win over City.
Casemiro’s Departure Opens Door for Youth
The timing of the talks coincides with confirmation that Casemiro will leave Old Trafford at the end of the season. United have decided against triggering his 12-month extension or offering a renewal ending a four-year stay for the Brazilian.
Casemiro one of the highest earners at the club enjoyed a strong resurgence in the past year fighting for his place under Amorim and starting under Carrick. His exit frees significant wage capacity which United plan to redirect toward midfield reinforcements.
The club has shown interest in players such as Carlos Baleba Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton ahead of the summer window. With Manuel Ugarte and now revitalised Mainoo the midfield options remain thin particularly if Bruno Fernandes shifts to a more advanced role.
Sky Sports News analyst Dan Khan noted that United under INEOS are streamlining operations and prioritising midfield investment. The freed wages from Casemiro plus potential from Harry Maguire whose contract also expires this summer will provide room for new signings. Mainoo’s new deal forms part of a broader strategy to secure and build around young talent for the future.
