Mainoo Open to Late Manchester United Exit as Contract Talks Stall

• Kobbie Mainoo would consider departing Manchester United in the final week of the transfer window if an appropriate offer is received
• The England midfielder has not featured in United’s opening two Premier League matches and has not agreed a new deal, with his current contract running until 2027
• Mainoo endured an injury-affected 2024/25 campaign but still managed 25 appearances amidst ongoing uncertainty over his Old Trafford future

Contract Uncertainty and Transfer Window Developments

Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly open to leaving Manchester United before the transfer deadline if the club accept a suitable bid, according to talkSPORT.

Mainoo, capped by England, has yet to appear in either of United’s first two Premier League games this season, serving as an unused substitute on both occasions. Despite entering discussions, the 19-year-old has not reached agreement on a contract extension, with his existing deal set to expire in 2027.

Rapid Rise and International Recognition

Since making his senior debut at 17 in a Carabao Cup quarter-final tie against Charlton in 2023, Mainoo has amassed 72 appearances for Manchester United. He rapidly established himself as a regular under Erik ten Hag during the 2023/24 season.

His impressive performances earned him a place in the England squad, where he featured in all but one match as the Three Lions finished Euro 2024 as runners-up to Spain. Mainoo’s standout season also saw him nominated for the 2024 Golden Boy award, ultimately claimed by Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal.

Ruben Amorim has told Kobbie Mainoo he has to compete with Bruno Fernandes for a place in the team.

"He is fighting for the position now with Bruno," Amorim said. "So he just needs to fight for the position with Bruno in training. Like it should be at Manchester United."

Mainoo… pic.twitter.com/AC6KtjgKT7

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) August 25, 2025

Challenges and Unclear Future at Old Trafford

Mainoo’s progress was hampered by injuries during the 2024/25 campaign, limiting him to 25 appearances. His game time became less predictable, contributing to speculation regarding his future at the club.

In March, reports from talkSPORT indicated Mainoo’s desire to remain at Old Trafford, provided his salary reflects his growing influence—believing his contribution merits wages in the region of £150,000 per week. However, financial considerations surrounding Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) mean the club might reluctantly contemplate the sale of academy graduates, who represent pure profit in accounting terms.

Chelsea have shown previous interest in acquiring Mainoo’s services, and reports from The Guardian suggest the player has also been intrigued by a potential move abroad.

Managerial Perspective on Selection Decisions

Following Mainoo’s omission from the action in United’s draw with Fulham, manager Ruben Amorim addressed the reasons behind his selection choices:

“He’s fighting for the position now with Bruno and I change two midfielders. I let Mason Mount [play] there because we want to score a goal and when I changed I felt the team need to return to one holding midfielder near Bruno. So he (Mainoo) just needs to fight for the position with Bruno, as [it] should be at Manchester United. [Sometimes] he’s going to play with Bruno, but at the moment he’s fighting in training with Bruno for the position.”