Man Utd to offer bumper new deal for 'special' midfielder to die him down

Manchester United have made securing Kobbie Mainoo’s future a top priority following the closure of the winter transfer window.

Despite sitting in the bottom half of the Premier League and suffering a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, United’s only late-window signings were Ayden Heaven from Arsenal and Patrick Dorgu in a £30 million deal from Lecce.

While Marcus Rashford was allowed to leave on loan to Aston Villa—who have an option to buy for £40 million—United are determined to keep hold of Mainoo and are pushing for him to sign an improved contract.

Sources indicate that head coach Ruben Amorim and club officials are keen to finalize a new deal for Mainoo, recognizing his rapid rise to prominence.

The 19-year-old midfielder has become one of the first names on the team sheet, as well as breaking into the England national team.

Currently earning £20,000 per week, Mainoo is among the lowest-paid players in the squad, and United are aware that he deserves a significant pay increase.

However, the teenager’s representatives are reportedly seeking a salary increase to around £200,000 per week.

Initially, United had been open to offers around £70 million in early 2025 due to financial considerations, but with Mainoo now considered untouchable, the club is fully focused on extending his contract.

United’s negotiations have received a major boost, with sources confirming that Mainoo has no desire to leave his boyhood club.

Plans are now in place to finalize an improved contract before the end of the season.

Despite interest from Chelsea and Bayern Munich, who were monitoring his situation before the February 3 deadline, Mainoo remained focused and did not push for a transfer.

Chelsea held informal talks to explore whether he would consider a move to Stamford Bridge if he were to leave United, but Amorim is determined to fend off any advances.

Having already made several behind-the-scenes changes, INEOS chief executive Sir Jim Ratcliffe views securing Mainoo’s future as a key step in shaping the next phase of United’s project.

Former United midfielder Paul Scholes has described Mainoo as “special,” and the club now wants to reward him accordingly as they look to build around their rising star.