Man Utd make Kobbie Mainoo contract decision after major U-turn | Football | Sport

Manchester United are poised to begin contract negotiations with Kobbie Mainoo and remain optimistic about securing a deal with the academy product before the end of the season. Mainoo has been reintegrated into the squad under Michael Carrick, featuring in all three matches since the 44-year-old took charge, following a period on the sidelines during Ruben Amorim’s tenure.

With Mainoo, 20, impressing in wins against Manchester City, Arsenal and Fulham, United have signalled their intention to reopen discussions over a fresh long-term contract with Mainoo, expecting a straightforward resolution. United had assured Mainoo they had no intention of allowing him to depart the club, despite the midfielder being overlooked under Amorim.

He failed to start any of the 20 Premier League fixtures under the Portuguese manager this campaign, but has since played every minute under Carrick’s stewardship.

While United were prepared to sanction a loan transfer in January if Mainoo believed it necessary for his progression, Old Trafford insiders maintain a permanent departure was never considered, and they would have rejected any loan arrangement, including a purchase option.

However, the decision to dismiss Amorim has transformed Mainoo’s prospects and he has swiftly recaptured his finest form under Carrick, prompting United to notify him and his representatives of their plans to initiate contract discussions.

Mainoo remains on the contract he penned as a 17-year-old back in February 2023, making him amongst the lowest earners in the first-team squad.

The agreement saw the Stockport native sign on a modest base salary, typical for academy products, with substantial bonuses tied to performance.

Whilst he regularly achieved those targets during his initial period with the squad, he didn’t activate them when Amorim dropped him to the bench. His recall to the starting XI has once more led to his wages increasing, thanks to the performance-related clauses in his deal.

Mainoo has 12 months remaining on that contract, plus an optional extension year in United’s favour, but the club are keen to secure him on a lengthier deal with improved terms that better reflect his standing. Negotiations proved tricky when he lost his place under Amorim, but he has once again demonstrated his value over the past three weeks.