Kobbie Mainoo’s representatives insist the midfielder wants to extend his Manchester United contract rather than leave the club this summer, according to reports. The 19-year-old’s future is currently up in the air amid ongoing contract negotiations surrounded by speculation that United could cash in at the end of the season.
Questions about whether Mainoo suits Ruben Amorim‘s 3-4-3 system have fuelled the uncertainty about his status in the head coach’s plans. United reportedly value the academy graduate at around £70million, which would represent pure profit on the books and go a long way to easing the club’s PSR and FFP limitations. Chelsea are among the clubs linked with a potential swoop, but Mainoo appears most likely to remain at Old Trafford beyond the summer.
According to TBR Football, there is now confidence among all parties that discussions will end with Mainoo signing a new contract.
Communication over a deal, which would feature improved terms than his current £25,000 weekly salary, is said to have remained open for weeks.
And it’s claimed that both sides of the negotiations are happy with how they are progressing towards a positive outcome.
The report adds that Chelsea have recently made fresh contact over a stunning summer swoop for Mainoo.
However, the England international’s camp has insisted that they didn’t instigate the contact, and the Blues have reportedly moved on.
Previous reports claimed that Mainoo is demanding a £180,000-a-week wage, which would propel him among United’s highest earners.
But he is unlikely to achieve those terms amid Sir Jim Ratcliffe‘s ruthless efforts to cut costs and avoid overpaying for new and current players.
The Red Devils’ new-look football hierarchy is thought to be reluctant to splash out on wages amid attempts to improve the club’s financial situation.
Mainoo will have to fall in line with the updated wage structure, which could involve a bonus-focused system with lower base salaries.
In January, Amorim played down claims that United would offload players to save money amid reports that Alejandro Garnacho and Mainoo could depart in January.
“Our idea is always to keep the best players and the players that we build for this club, but we know the position the club is in at the moment. We will see,” Amorim explained.
“But I’m very happy. I really like the players, especially the guys from the academy.”
The Portuguese tactician will hope to have Mainoo back from injury after the international break, having gone without him since February 7.
Content Source: www.express.co.uk