Kobbie Mainoo: Manchester United star “desperate” to join Real Madrid | OneFootball

Kobbie Mainoo missed Manchester United’s clash against Tottenham Hotspur after sustaining a minor injury. 

In his absence, Ruben Amorim included midfielder Jack Fletcher in the travelling squad, keeping United’s 88-year record of having an academy product in every matchday squad intact.

Fletcher’s contribution was limited to just that, as the Portuguese continued to rely on Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte. It is not far-fetched to say that Mainoo, also a product of United’s fabled academy, has been treated similarly by Amorim.

Mainoo pushed to fringes at Man United?

Mainoo, who made his senior breakthrough under Erik ten Hag, has struggled under Amorim. The ex-Sporting CP tactician has not handed the England international a single Premier League start this term. 

The 20-year-old requested to leave his boyhood club on a temporary basis in the final days of the summer window, sparking interest from several clubs, including Real Madrid.

The United hierarchy refused to entertain Mainoo’s transfer request. Only 228 minutes of action in all competitions underline that his situation has worsened.

Mainoo keen on joining Real Madrid

According to Defensa Central (via Fichajes), Mainoo is “desperate” to join Real and would be “willing to accept” a loan or even a permanent transfer to rediscover his form and maintain his development. 

It is claimed Real are closely monitoring the Englishman, as they are open to strengthening their midfield, having lost both Toni Kroos and Luka Modric in the space of 18 months. 

United, meanwhile, are not ruling out his exit. However, they value Mainoo, who is tied to Old Trafford until 2027, at around €90 million.

The Spanish outlet suggests the Red Devils’ demand has complicated negotiations over an immediate exit. 

Further, Real are expected to prioritise signing a more experienced player for Xabi Alonso.  

Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming Napoli are pushing to sign Mainoo in January. 

Featured image Shaun Botterill via Getty Images

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