Kobbie Mainoo: Barcelona eye move for Man United star after major setback | OneFootball

Barcelona are considering knocking on Manchester United’s door to address their midfield concerns.

Pedri and Frenkie de jong have arguably formed the best midfield partnership in Europe. In possession, both technically gifted midfielders are near-impossible to dispossess, and Hansi Flick has turned the pair into pressing machines without the ball.

However, Flick’s midfield options on the bench aren’t as reliable, featuring highly rated but inexperienced Marc Casado and Marc Bernal. Gavi, meanwhile, has had to deal with persistent fitness issues over the last two years.

The Spain international was sidelined for 11 months between November 2023 and October 2024 due to an ACL injury. He is set to be out of action for a long time after undergoing surgery for a meniscus injury.

Barcelona interested in Mainoo

According to Fichajes, Barcelona are prepared to explore the market for a new midfielder following Gavi’s latest injury setback.

The Spanish outlet claim that Kobbie Mainoo has emerged as a “strong candidate” to replace Gavi at Camp Nou.

It is well known that Mainoo requested to leave his boyhood club on loan in the summer after struggling for regular starts under Ruben Amorim.

United turned down the Englishman’s request, but an exit in January cannot be ruled out, as his situation under Amorim remains unchanged. The dynamic midfielder is still waiting for his first Premier League start this term.

Barca are well aware of Mainoo’s situation, and are understood to be considering testing United’s resolve.

It is claimed the La Liga giants’ plan is to “request a loan with an option to buy.” Further, negotiations between the two clubs for Mainoo “could accelerate in the coming weeks.”

Rashford enjoying prolific start to life in Barcelona

Barcelona used the same formula to secure the services of Marcus Rashford, another United academy graduate, ahead of the current campaign.

Rashford has had a strong start at his new club, having been directly involved in four goals in six appearances in all competitions.

Flick’s ambitious project and Rashford’s form at Barcelona might tempt Mainoo to jump ship and reunite with his fellow countryman in Catalonia.

Featured image Shaun Botterill via Getty Images

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