Barcelona To Rival Real Madrid For This Manchester United Midfielder: Should Flick Go For Him? | OneFootball

In a recent report, Defensa Central mentioned that Barcelona have set their sights on Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. It has been stated that the Catalan club would have to rival Real Madrid in the race to land the English talent next year.

Mainoo’s Lack Of Game Time For Man United This Season

Mainoo has struggled to earn regular first-team starts for the Mancunian club this season, but has caught the eye at times for them in the middle of the park. The 20-year-old has secured one assist in 11 appearances for the Red Devils in this campaign so far across all competitions.

The English talent has anchored the midfield well at times as he has made six tackles, three blocks, one interception and four clearances in the Premier League. He has even distributed possession accurately from midfield based on his pass success rate of 86.4% in the English top tier (stats via fbref.com).

His current contract at the Mancunian club will expire in the summer of 2027, which could open the door for Barcelona to sign him on a cut-price deal at the end of this campaign.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – AUGUST 30: Kobbie Mainoo of Manchester United warms up prior to the Premier League match between Manchester United and Burnley at Old Trafford on August 30, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

Should Barcelona Boss Hansi Flick Go For Mainoo?

Mainoo is a good tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the front foot and is a tidy passer of the ball as well.

The English sensation can shoot the ball with venom from long range and has got the vision to create a few decent chances in the final third. He is a decent dribbler with the ball as well but needs to add more goals and assists to his game.

We can expect Mainoo to add more quality and depth to Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick’s midfield. He has what it takes to compete for a regular starting place at the Nou Camp.

At 20, the future looks quite bright for Mainoo as long as he continues to improve with each year. With all things considered, Amorim would be wise to go for a player of his squad and potential this January or at the end of this season.