After his breakthrough the youth system at Manchester United in recent years, Kobbie Mainoo was once seen as the future of the side – potentially playing a key role in any success down the line.
Despite being just 20 years of age, the youngster has already produced numerous moments of magic, many of which have helped the Red Devils in key moments.
The midfielder has already racked up a goal in an FA Cup final, whilst also scoring a vital goal in the Europa League last season – helping Ruben Amorim’s side reach the final in Bilbao.
However, his future at Old Trafford appears up in the air, potentially departing his boyhood side before Monday’s deadline, with the likes of Real Madrid, Leeds and Everton all interested in his signature.
Other options are being considered by the hierarchy in an attempt to bolster the side, with the side potentially getting a new addition before the window slams shut on Monday.
United’s hunt for a new midfielder this summer
Over the last couple of days, Stuttgart star Angelo Stiller has emerged as a key target for United this window, after the German made 47 appearances in all competitions last campaign.
It’s been reported that he could be allowed to leave the Bundesliga outfit for a fee in the region of £32m this window – but time is rapidly running out to complete a deal for his signature.
However, other options have been considered by the board, with Atlético Madrid star Conor Gallagher another player INEOS are considering, according to TBR Football.
They claim the Red Devils are one of multiple sides currently interested in the 25-year-old’s signature, with the LaLiga side potentially allowing the Englishman to depart the club this summer.
It’s also been reported that the former Chelsea star could be tempted by a return to the Premier League, with Diego Simeone’s side demanding €50m (£43m) for his signature.
Why United’s latest target would be bad news for Mainoo
Despite rumours about his future at United, Mainoo started the Carabao Cup defeat against Grimsby Town on Wednesday night – in what was a night to forget for the football club.
The academy graduate featured for the entirety of the contest, even scoring his penalty in the shootout, but it wasn’t enough as Amorim’s side crashed out at the first hurdle.
However, he did get the assist for Bryan Mbeumo’s goal, helping produce the first goal of what’s been a slow start to the 2025/26 campaign – leading to questions about Amorim’s future in the role.
Last night was Mainoo’s first appearance of the new season, previously being an unnamed substitute in the two Premier League outings against Arsenal and Fulham.
It’s clear that the youngster isn’t in the manager’s immediate plans, as seen by his lack of league action, with a move for Gallagher only pushing him further down the pecking order.
When comparing the pair’s respective figures from the 2024/25 campaign, the Atlético star managed to better Mainoo in various key areas – highlighting the quality he could add to the Red Devils midfield.
Gallagher, who’s been labelled “sensational” by journalist John Cross, completed more progressive passes per 90, with more of his attempts going into the opposition box – handing the new attackers the chance to thrive at Old Trafford.
Games played
32
25
Goals & assists
6
0
Progressive passes
3.5
3.4
Passes into the opposition box
0.8
0.6
Progressive carries
1.4
1.2
Carries into final third
1.3
0.9
Tackles won
1.8
1.5
Blocks made
1.3
0.8
Interceptions made
1.1
0.9
Recoveries made
5.9
4.8
He also completed more progressive carries per 90, taking the ball into the final third more per 90, further showcasing the excellent ability the Atlético star possesses with the ball at his feet.
However, Gallagher has been just as effective without the ball, winning more tackles per 90 and making more blocks – subsequently handing Amorim the ball-winning option he’s craved this summer.
£43m could prove to be an excellent addition by the club, with the Englishman having key Premier League experience in the Red Devils’ hunt for glory once again.
Any move could spell the end of Mainoo’s time at Old Trafford – with the supporters potentially unhappy with the hierarchy should they decide to part ways with the youngster.
