Kobbie Mainoo is leaning towards leaving Manchester United rather than signing a new contract, as he prefers a move abroad over staying in the Premier League. The 19-year-old has made 60 appearances for the club and earned 10 England caps, emerging as a key player for both United and the national team.
Despite his rapid rise, Mainoo remains on a £20,000-a-week contract, significantly lower than his first-team teammates. Manchester United are in talks with his representatives over a vastly improved deal, but reports suggest he is currently favoring an exit.
The club is not entirely opposed to selling him, especially given his estimated £70m valuation, which would be pure profit under Profit and Sustainability Rules. His sale could help fund a squad rebuild under new manager Ruben Amorim, though Amorim has expressed his desire to keep the talented midfielder.
In January, Amorim acknowledged United’s financial constraints but stressed the importance of retaining top players. The club, however, is already preparing for other departures, with Victor Lindelof and Christian Eriksen set to leave as free agents this summer.
United are also looking to offload Antony and Marcus Rashford permanently after their loan spells, while Casemiro could be sold due to his high wages, though his resale value is limited. Clearing these salaries would provide more financial flexibility for Amorim’s summer plans.
If Mainoo were to sign a new deal, his wages would increase dramatically to around £180,000-a-week, bringing him in line with other regular first-team players. However, his preference for a move abroad complicates negotiations.
Amorim is focused on restructuring the squad to fit his 3-4-3 formation, with a top striker being a priority. United have been linked with Victor Gyokeres, Victor Osimhen, and Jean-Phillipe Mateta as potential attacking reinforcements.
Mainoo’s future remains uncertain, and Manchester United will continue to push for an extension. However, if he chooses to leave, his departure could play a crucial role in shaping the club’s transfer strategy this summer.