Kobbie Mainoo was linked with a shock move to rivals Man City this week.
The report originally came from FourFourTwo (their magazine is better than the website) and it suggests that Pep Guardiola has eyed Mainoo as a potential option to add to his City squad.
That would mean Mainoo’s development would continue away from Carrington and nobody at the club wants that to happen.
However, the Manchester Evening News claims United are relaxed about City’s long-standing interest in the young midfielder. Mainoo joined United’s academy aged nine and the MEN understands City have attempted to lure him away previously, but he’s chosen to stay each time.
On top of that, Mainoo recently signed a new long-term contract until the summer of 2027.
The 18-year has not played for the first team since pre-season, but he has returned to the matchday squad for today’s trip to Fulham.
Erik ten Hag has made it clear that he rates Mainoo and that he will get opportunities at United. Prior to last week’s humiliating derby defeat against Man City, the manager told reporters spoke about the academy graduate (via Daily Mail): “Still a way to go, but he’s ready for a part of the game. That’s good news because he’s a midfield player and we can use his capabilities, his physicality, his taking of the ball and he’s brace.
“All of his abilities and skills, he can contribute to the team.”
Furthermore, United did not listen to any loan offers for Mainoo in the summer because Ten Hag intended to give him minutes in the first team.
Let us know in the comments section if you think Mainoo will start today against Fulham.
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