This week, there has been a gasp from Manchester United supporters. Reports have been coming in that Chelsea are working to manoeuvre their way to the signing of Kobbie Mainoo, the player Sir Alex Ferguson describes as the “heart and soul” of Manchester United. Just a loose rumor? This is now confirmed from an “insider” at Chelsea.
Mainoo has a contract until 2027, but an extension is being negotiated. On Tuesday, the Manchester Evening News reported that Mainoo is very unhappy with the offer the club has put on the table. The Guardian reports that on the other side of the table, Sir Jim Ratcliffe is fed up with the club’s inability to make the big sales. A player like Mainoo, who rivals will go to great lengths to sign, is therefore not “untochable”.
Then to Chelsea. English journalist Simon Phillips has a network of sources “close by”, now he gives a status report on what he has picked up about Chelsea’s Mainoo campaign.
“What we have heard is that Chelsea once again see an opportunity with Mainoo. Sources have heard that United are still trying to agree a new contract,” Phillips told Caughtoffside.
“But it has also been reported by reliable media that United may not be able to turn down any good offers for Mainoo due to PSR issues, with a number of their home grown players now for sale,” Phillps continues.
-Chelsea have basically just contacted his agents to tell him that they are interested and to see if there is anything to be gained. My top source (at Chelsea) sent me a message late last night and said ‘we’re trying to turn Mainoo’s head”, says the man with good insight into the process.
