According to English media, Real and Atletico are considering loaning Mainoo during the final week of the transfer window. The English midfielder is also eager for regular playing time and especially the opportunity to play in the Champions League.
However, the possibility of Man Utd agreeing to a loan is very low. The "Red Devils" currently have only four central midfielders: Mainoo, Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte, and Bruno Fernandes. Therefore, they are reluctant to let Mainoo leave unless they receive a reasonable permanent transfer offer.
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Kobbie Mainoo celebrates winning the 2023-2024 FA Cup. Photo: Man Utd |
Kobbie Mainoo celebrates winning the 2023-2024 FA Cup. Photo: Man Utd
Mainoo, once considered a Man Utd gem, signed his first professional contract in 5/2022. He became a key player under manager Erik ten Hag, with his most notable contribution being the winning goal in Man Utd's 2-1 victory over Man City in the 2023-2024 FA Cup final.
The 20-year-old player has gradually lost his place since Ruben Amorim took over at Old Trafford. The Portuguese manager prefers his compatriot Bruno Fernandes and a defensive midfielder in a 3-4-3 system. Mainoo did not play in the first two rounds of this Premier League season, despite the team's offensive struggles in their 1-0 loss to Arsenal and 1-1 draw with Fulham.
According to Sportmail, the lack of playing time, coupled with slow progress in contract negotiations, has strained the relationship between the two sides. Man Utd's management is expected to make a decision on Mainoo's future in the next two days.
Man Utd is also reportedly considering the future of Fernandes, who is attracting interest from Al Ittihad. If they sell the 31-year-old captain, the "Red Devils" could revive their pursuit of Carlos Baleba, the Cameroonian player Brighton has valued at £100 million (135 million USD).
Old Trafford is also actively seeking buyers for Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, and Jadon Sancho – players who are no longer in Amorim's plans.
Hong Duy (according to Daily Mail, the Guardian)
