Kobbie Mainoo’s Surprise Transfer Decision Sparks Chelsea’s Interest

Manchester United midfielder, Kobbie Mainoo, is expected to reject a new contract at his boyhood club to prioritize a transfer abroad, according to a report.

Kobbie Mainoo, the Stockport-born 19-year-old, has been out for a month due to a calf injury. Despite his youth, the ten-time senior England international had already become an integral player for Manchester United, even scoring in their victorious FA Cup final last summer.

Kobbie Mainoo scored against Manchester City in the FA Cup final

However, despite his status as an undisputed favorite of the fans and various United coaches, Mainoo’s future has been decidedly uncertain for months.

In the club’s continued drive to raise revenue, selling the team’s academy graduates offers a quick route to masses of pure profit.

It was believed that the highly talented midfielder could have been sold during the January transfer window, with Chelsea showing significant interest.

However, a £70 million asking price deterred all potential buyers.

United had resolved to keep Mainoo and are reportedly preparing a new contract offer. But the teenager isn’t on the same page.

The Guardian reports that Mainoo is expected to reject United’s incoming proposal and has his heart set on “a move abroad”. No foreign club was named.

Mainoo is currently one of the United’s lowest earners on £20,000 per week and was thought to be pushing for a weekly salary closer to £180,000. The Red Devils are described as “hopeful” that a new deal can still be struck.

Should Manchester United be compelled to sell their academy graduate, they will maintain a £70 million asking price for any interested club, despite Mainoo having only two years remaining on his current contract by the summer.

Head coach Ruben Amorim has previously stressed his desire to keep Mainoo, hailing the midfielder’s “special” talent and ability to play closer to goal.

Whether the Portuguese coach will have the final say over the teenager’s future remains to be seen.