Manchester United are optimistic about agreeing on a new long-term deal with their midfield sensation Kobbie Mainoo.
Kobbie Mainoo’s future had become a massive talking point during Ruben Amorim’s time at the club, as the English international was struggling to get regular minutes. He was heavily linked with a move away, and contract renewal talks had also stalled.
However, according to Pete O’Rourke via Football Insider, Manchester United are now confident about agreeing a new long-term deal with Mainoo, as he has returned to the starting XI under Michael Carrick and has proved his worth with consistent performances.
Mainoo has come up the ranks at Old Trafford. He got his big break under Erik ten Hag and got promoted to the first team at the start of 2023. While he was a constant feature in the XI under the Dutch manager, a lot changed following the arrival of Ruben Amorim.
The Portuguese manager didn’t consider him to be an ideal fit for his system. While Mainoo pushed for a temporary exit during last summer, Amorim blocked a move away. While the 20-year-old was hoping to have a decent role in the team, things didn’t go according to plan for him.
A new deal for Mainoo is on the cards
The lack of minutes frustrated the youngster, and he was ready to force his way out. But the club blocked his exit mid-season, and they won’t open the doors next summer as well. His current deal runs out in 2027, which means he will only have a year left on his contract in the summer.
While speaking about his future, O’Rourke said, “If Ruben Amorim remained in charge at Old Trafford, you can’t imagine there would have been progress in contract talks.
“That situation has totally changed now under Michael Carrick, he’s been a regular starter since he replaced Amorim at Old Trafford in January.
“He’s under contract until 2027, so I would imagine those talks will reopen soon and they’re confident something will get sorted and we’ll see Mainoo sign a new contract.
“He’s proved himself in the last few weeks under Carrick and I’d imagine there’s a big likelihood of Mainoo signing a new contract sooner rather than later.
“I think something will be resolved in the summer, because he’s become a key man for Man United and they’re confident of keeping him on.
“The player’s happier now with his role and United always wanted to keep him.”
While his role in the team has improved since Carrick tookover following Amorim’s sacking, the Red Devils haven’t made any progress in renewal talks with the 20-year-old’s camp. There are a host of top clubs that could pounce on the opportunity to sign him.
However, United remain confident that they will be able to secure his long-term future. While talks haven’t advanced yet, Mainoo is now keen on extending his stay at Old Trafford, as he is happy now that he is playing week in and week out.
