Key Takeaways:
- Manchester United are preparing to open contract talks with Kobbie Mainoo ahead of the season’s end
- Mainoo, aged 20, has started all three matches under Michael Carrick following his return to the squad
- United did not contemplate a permanent sale or a loan with purchase option for Mainoo, even when he was sidelined under Ruben Amorim
Mainoo’s Return Sparks Contract Negotiations
Manchester United are ready to commence fresh negotiations with Kobbie Mainoo regarding a new long-term contract, aiming to reach an agreement before the season concludes. The club’s confidence is buoyed by Mainoo’s strong performances since being restored to the line-up by Michael Carrick, who has overseen all three of United’s recent fixtures since taking over managerial duties from Ruben Amorim.
🚨#mufc hopeful of agreeing a deal with Kobbie Mainoo before the end of the season. Club to open contract talks with him imminently. #MUFC [@TyMarshall_MEN] pic.twitter.com/BL0QmqNu4y
— The United Stand (@UnitedStandMUFC) February 6, 2026
Key Role Under Carrick After Amorim Departure
Mainoo, 20, has been ever-present in recent victories against Manchester City, Arsenal, and Fulham, underlining his growing importance to the squad. During Ruben Amorim’s stint as manager, Mainoo struggled for opportunities and did not start in any of the 20 Premier League matches. However, since Carrick assumed control, Mainoo has played every minute, marking a significant reversal in his fortunes.
Contract Situation and Wage Structure
Having signed his current contract as a 17-year-old in February 2023, Mainoo remains one of the lowest-paid members of the senior squad. The agreement features a modest base wage typical for homegrown talents, augmented by performance-based bonuses. Though Mainoo routinely met those incentives early in his senior involvement, his time on the bench under Amorim meant the bonuses were not triggered. His recent run as a starter under Carrick has once again activated these performance clauses, resulting in increased earnings.
With only 12 months left on his present contract and a further optional year at United’s discretion, the club are pressing to secure his future on enhanced terms that better match his first-team contributions. Negotiations had stalled while he was out of favour, but his resurgence over the last three weeks has demonstrated his worth and expedited United’s intent to settle a longer-term deal.
Old Trafford’s Position on Mainoo’s Future
Throughout the campaign, United maintained that a permanent transfer for Mainoo was not under consideration, even when he was not involved under Amorim. While the option of a January loan was discussed if Mainoo felt it essential for his development, insiders stress that no arrangement involving an option to buy would have been sanctioned.
The dismissal of Amorim has proven a turning point for Mainoo, who has rapidly regained his best form under Carrick’s guidance. This upturn has prompted United to formally approach Mainoo and his representatives regarding a new contract, signalling his central role in the club’s future plans.
