Chelsea will aim to sign Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo if he decides to leave Old Trafford.
The 19-year-old midfielder has enjoyed a remarkable rise in the 2023/24 season, putting in an impressive performance in United's draw against Liverpool last weekend, but is yet to agree terms on a new contract. The parties are said to be at a stalemate
Mainoo's deal expires in June 2027, but includes an option for a further twelve months. That deal was signed in 2023, but new terms were planned to recognize the academy player's status as a first-team regular and England international.
The Mail reports that Chelsea will try to capitalize on any disagreement that arises. The contract impasse is said to have alerted Europe's top sides to the fact that an exit could be possible this month or at the end of the season.
The Blues would undoubtedly face competition if the opportunity to secure a deal for Mainoo arose. The west London outfit have not been afraid to splash the cash on young talent from across the Premier League, including Romeo Lavia and Cole Palmer, although Mainoo could prove even more expensive.
United, meanwhile, are trying to tighten the purse strings by offloading high earners such as Casemiro on £375,000 a week, Marcus Rashford on £315,000 and Antony on £200,000. With the cost savings at the Red Devils, it is suggested that Mainoo could command a bigger package away from Old Trafford.
The report adds that Mainoo is concerned about the direction of the club and whether the opportunity to play Champions League football will be available. Ruben Amorim's team is in thirteenth place in the Premier League.
Last weekend it was reported that Mainoo is not an 'unsellable' member of United's selection. Leny Yoro and Amad Diallo would be the only two Ruben Amorim players who are currently untouchable.
Mainoo, alongside Alejandro Garnacho, was previously deemed unavailable for transfer. The club's financial problems and the need to comply with Premier League profit and sustainability rules are making homegrown players more marketable assets and amid the issues over Mainoo's contract, United could consider a move .
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