“Chelsea “leading chase” to sign Kobbie Mainoo amid contract stalemate with Man United

Chelsea are reportedly leading the race to sign Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo if he were to leave Old Trafford.

Mainoo broke into the team last season under Erik ten Hag, quickly cementing his place in the side as a guaranteed starter. He played a crucial role in United’s FA Cup final triumph over Manchester City, scoring in the final.

The Carrington academy graduate was also instrumental for England as they reached the Euro 2024 final, where they eventually lost to Spain.

This term, Mainoo has had a slight dip in form, partly due to an injury he suffered, but in the past two games against Newcastle and Liverpool, he gave everyone a timely reminder of just how good he is.

Amidst United’s dire financial position, it has been suggested that United could be convinced to sell Mainoo. As a homegrown player, Mainoo’s sale would be recorded as “pure profit”, significantly helping the club out of its current predicament. It’s for this same reason that United are believed to be open to offers for Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford.

Now, Chris Wheeler of The Daily Mail reveals that Chelsea are eyeing a swoop for Mainoo.

According to Wheeler, “Chelsea are leading the chase to sign Kobbie Mainoo in a sensational deal if the Manchester United midfielder leaves Old Trafford. United have reached a stalemate in contract talks with Mainoo’s representatives, alerting Europe’s top clubs to the fact he could be sold this month or at the end of the season.”

“United will hope that a compromise can still be reached and they can keep hold of their homegrown star.

“Mail Sport understands that Chelsea are in pole position to sign the 19-year-old if he cannot agree new terms at United, although there is bound to be competition from their Premier League rivals and big clubs abroad.”

Wheeler notes that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS are trying to bring down United’s wage bill and this has “hampered negotiations” with Mainoo, who is fully aware he could command a better salary elsewhere.

Additionally, it’s understood that Mainoo retains reservations about the team’s direction and future prospects. He wants to be playing Champions League football regularly.

Sam Cohen, a relatively reliable source for United news, divulges that there have been some talks between Mainoo’s agent and Chelsea but nothing is advanced. Cohen also points out that the Red Mainoo’s wish is to stay at United despite links to Chelsea.

Cohen wrote on X, “There have been brief discussions between Kobbie Mainoo’s agent and Chelsea, but no significant progress has been made at this stage, I understand.”

“Meanwhile, Manchester United are actively working on securing a new contract for him. It’s clear to all involved that Kobbie would prefer to remain at Manchester United, and Ruben Amorim loves the player.”

“Told United’s main priority has been on a renewal for Amad, once done, it’s then expected United will advance forward for Kobbie’s renewal.”

Mainoo’s current terms run until June 2027.

Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images

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