Manchester United told Chelsea how much it will cost to sign Kobbie Mainoo, and the number looks like a typo.
Chelsea are favourites to sign Kobbie Mainoo if he does not agree on a new contract. The 19-year-old had a fantastic breakthrough campaign for the Red Devils last season, making 32 appearances and scoring five times from midfield – including the second goal in the FA Cup final over Manchester City.
He was then one of England’s best players in Euro 2024, playing six games and starting in the final against Spain.
Mainoo is a United fan and came through the ranks at the club, but on Tuesday there was a complete halt in the negotiations. In addition, Mainoo is naturally “worried” about the direction the club is taking. Currently ranked 13th in the Premier League.
Mainoo, who is leaving has almost two years left on his deal and is said to be demanding new terms of £200,000 a week.
Both he and fellow wonderkid Alejandro Garnacho are seen as two tradable assets for United as homegrown players represent pure profit on the balance sheet when it comes to PSR (profit and sustainability) rules.
Fans have reacted with shock and disbelief when they read what The Mirror writes Manchester United demands. Mainoo is offered for 90 million euros, miles above the estimated value that Transfermarkt has set and which should be reasonable.
Ruben Amorim wants the midfielder to stay and sees him as an important part of his plans. They are in talks over a new and improved deal, with Mainoo’s representatives looking for him to get into United’s top five earners after his meteoric rise.
At the moment, this top five is led by Casemiro, who earns £350,000 a week on second-place Marcus Rashford and his £325,000 wage package.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is reported to be raking in £300,000 a week, while Mason Mount paid £250,000 a week after signing in 2023.
The report notes that United are confident that they can reach an agreement with Mainoo that includes a significant salary increase to outline his importance to the club.
Mainoo made his debut in a Carabao Cup match against Charlton Athletic, and has played 52 times for United and scored five goals. He finished third in the 2024 Kopa Trophy, won by Lamine Yamal.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s trick may be to keep his old salary of £20,000 a week, for as long as possible and then just sell next summer.
