Report: Man Utd open to new deal for Kobbie Mainoo

The 19-year-old academy graduate has been a standout performer for United over the past two seasons, first breaking into the senior side under Erik ten Hag. Current head coach Ruben Amorim has also taken a shine to him, deploying the midfielder in more advanced roles and praising his potential.

Despite his rise, contract talks have hit bumps in the road. Mainoo has reportedly sought a hefty weekly wage of 150,000 pounds to extend his stay, a figure that clashes with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe's plans to tighten the club's spending.

Last month, whispers emerged that Ratcliffe's strict wage policy had sparked a standoff, with some even suggesting Mainoo could be sold in the summer transfer window if no deal was reached.

However, a new twist has emerged. According to GiveMeSport, Mainoo remains open to staying at Old Trafford and being part of Amorim's long-term vision, despite interest from some of Europe's top teams.

The report indicates that United are readying a new offer, though it won't hit the 180,000 pounds per week some had speculated, an amount deemed unrealistic as the club reshapes its wage structure.

Instead, insiders suggest the proposal will exceed 100,000 pounds weekly, aligning closely with the recent deal given to teammate Amad Diallo. Sources claim this reflects Mainoo's rapid rise and growing value to the squad.

Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole has weighed in, warning that any move to offload Mainoo would be driven by money, not football.

Speaking to Paddy Power, Cole said: "Manchester United are in the same boat as other Premier League clubs, they might have to sell academy players to stay within Financial Fair Play rules. From a technical and football perspective, there's no way they'll want to let Kobbie Mainoo go. If they do, it'll be a financial and business call, pure and simple."

Cole added: "I'd imagine Kobbie doesn't want to leave United, but he'll want clarity on his role. He's an England international and one of their best talents. Selling him would just be about balancing the books. Clubs like United making business decisions over football ones is a worry, it won't sit well with fans over time. They want to see great players like Mainoo in the shirt."

For now, United fans wait anxiously. Mainoo's blend of skill and homegrown pride makes him a player they're desperate to keep, but with financial pressures looming, the next few weeks could prove decisive.