Manchester United are intensifying efforts to secure the future of their prodigious midfielder, Kobbie Mainoo, amidst escalating interest from Premier League rivals, notably Chelsea.
Mainoo Wants to Stay at United – But Will the Club Meet His Demands?
The 19-year-old, who has risen through United’s academy ranks, is currently engaged in contract negotiations with the club, seeking terms that reflect his burgeoning status within the squad.
Mainoo’s existing contract, signed in February 2023, sees him earning £20,000 per week and is set to run until 2027.
However, his representatives are advocating for a substantial increase, proposing a new weekly wage of £180,000, which is less than half of what senior midfielder Casemiro earns at £375,000 per week.
This demand underscores Mainoo’s desire for remuneration that aligns with his contributions and status as an England international.
The club’s financial landscape adds complexity to these negotiations. With INEOS poised to become part-owners, there is a pressing need to comply with financial regulations, potentially necessitating player sales to balance the books.
Mainoo’s homegrown status means any transfer fee would represent pure profit, making him a valuable asset in this context.
Chelsea have reportedly expressed keen interest, valuing Mainoo around £70 million, positioning themselves at the forefront should he become available.
Despite external interest, both Manchester United and Mainoo appear committed to reaching an agreement. The club is reportedly ‘relaxed’ about the situation, with manager Ruben Amorim publicly praising Mainoo’s development and potential.
Amorim emphasized that while Mainoo has made significant strides, there is still room for growth, stating, “He has so much potential to grow even more, but he is really good and can be so much better.”
Mainoo’s preference is to continue his development at Old Trafford under improved terms.
The proposed contract includes a base salary increase to £150,000 per week, with an additional £30,000 contingent upon Champions League qualification. This performance-related clause reflects both the player’s ambition and the club’s objectives.
As negotiations progress, Manchester United are keen to finalize an agreement that secures Mainoo’s long-term future, balancing financial prudence with the desire to retain one of their most promising talents.
The outcome of these discussions will not only impact Mainoo’s career trajectory but also signal the club’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent amidst evolving financial and competitive landscapes.
