Manchester United is reportedly demanding a fee of around £70m to part ways with midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, amid growing interest from Chelsea.
United have yet to reach an agreement on a new contract for Mainoo, who remains on the £20,000-a-week deal he signed in February 2023. The club’s situation has become more pressing with Chelsea said to be ‘leading the race’ for the 19-year-old, and suggestions that they could move for him this month if Mainoo expresses interest in a switch to Stamford Bridge.
However, according to The Mirror, for United to agree to a sale, they would require a fee close to £70m.
Although United have no immediate desire to sell Mainoo, whose contract runs until 2027 with an extension option, they acknowledge the financial boost that could come from selling an academy graduate for a substantial profit.
The club’s concerns over the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules have made them open to offers for any player, but they are unlikely to let valuable assets like Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho, Leny Yoro, or Rasmus Højlund leave cheaply.
United also hope to secure Mainoo’s long-term future with a lucrative new contract, following his rise to a key first-team role. However, their initial offer is believed to have left the player “unhappy.”
