Real Madrid want to strengthen their midfield and have therefore put their spotlight on a young profile who excels at Manchester United.
Kobbie Mainoo has become one of the big names at Manchester United. At 20, the English midfielder has already played over 70 official matches, showing his bravery despite his young age.
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Kobbie Mainoo’s road to the top has been meteoric. With a market value of €50 million, the midfielder has secured a permanent place in the Red Devils’ plans and established himself as one of the biggest talents in British football.
Real Madrid’s interest in Kobbie Mainoo is no coincidence. The Spanish giants see the English player as a perfect fit for the generational change that is underway in midfield and points to him as a strategic target for 2026.
Kobbie Mainoo’s contract situation plays in favor of the Spaniards. His contract with Manchester United expires in 2027, but the summer of 2026 promises to be the ideal time to try and sign him for a lower price than what is now expected in England.
At the Bernabéu, they know that Kobbie Mainoo could be the natural successor in a midfield that has had legendary figures. His ability to cover the pitch, distribute the ball wisely and contribute balance makes him a sought-after profile.
Manchester United, on the other hand, do not want to let go of Kobbie Mainoo. The club’s leaders consider the midfielder as a piece to return the team to the European elite and will not give in to the demands of interested clubs without a fight.
Still, recent history shows that players with great potential like Kobbie Mainoo are ultimately tempted by projects with greater sporting stability and higher ambitions, something Real Madrid have a clear advantage on.
The amount of 50 million euros may seem high, but in two years it could be significantly reduced. If Manchester United do not renew Kobbie Mainoo’s contract before 2026, the pressure will increase to avoid the player entering his final year of contract without the club receiving compensation.
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Real Madrid have carried out similar operations in the past. Signings such as Franco Mastantuono and Eduardo Camavinga are a reminder of the club’s ability to get ahead of the competition and secure young talent on favourable terms. Kobbie Mainoo could follow the same path.
Real Madrid fans have already started to get excited about the possibility of seeing Kobbie Mainoo at the Santiago Bernabéu. His style of play would fit the philosophy of passing, pressing and physical effort that has characterized the white club over the past decade.
In England, the sports media follow the rumours closely. The Premier League does not want to lose Kobbie Mainoo, but the reality is that the interest from Real Madrid represents an offer that is difficult to refuse for any player of his age.
The young midfielder’s career is only at the beginning, but all indications are that Kobbie Mainoo will be a key player in the next transfer window. His future could be written in Spain, in an arena reserved for the greatest talents in world football.
