Chelsea are said to be increasing their interest in Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo following Romeo Lavia’s continued fitness issues. Unfortunately, sources close to negotiations between Mainoo and United regarding contract extension discussions have yet to bear fruit.
Mainoo, who has quickly established himself within Manchester United’s team, still ranks among its lower-paid members, receiving only PS20,000 per week as his weekly wage. His camp is pushing hard for an increase to PS180,000 per week which may hinder efforts made by Manchester United to retain him given Financial Fair Play rules.
Chelsea’s monitoring of Mainoo’s situation has been persistent, particularly due to their challenges with Lavia. The Belgian youngster’s first season at Chelsea has been marred by a series of injuries following his £58 million transfer from Southampton in 2023. Muscle and ankle issues have significantly limited his playtime to just 588 minutes this season, with his return to the pitch not anticipated until the end of the month.
Kobbie Mainoo: A Potential Game-Changer for Chelsea’s Midfield
Despite the promising duo of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo, Chelsea believes Mainoo could provide the quality and balance needed in their midfield setup. Securing a deal for Mainoo, however, will not be straightforward, given his wage expectations that would align him with top earners at Chelsea.
Mainoo will turn 20 in April and has two years left on his current deal at Manchester United, who value the England international at around PS75 million. Given his significant development since joining United as a six year old and making his senior debut 17 months later in 2023, United might consider selling him if an acceptable offer arises.
Mainoo was born and bred in Stockport and since has made 60 first-team appearances and earned 10 caps for England. Although discussions for contract renewal have yet to reach an agreement, reports indicate he prefers an international move rather than moving within Premier League clubs; although an acceptable offer from Chelsea meeting his financial expectations could change this dynamic.