Kobbie Mainoo: Juventus make ‘Pogba 2.0’ transfer decision on star ahead of January | OneFootball

Serie A giants Juventus are reportedly considering a January swoop for Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo as he continues to struggle for playing time under Ruben Amorim.

Mainoo exit on the cards

Mainoo has had to be content with being a peripheral figure since Amorim’s appointment as Erik ten Hag’s replacement in November last year. This season, however, his struggles have become far more pronounced.

The Carrington academy graduate has managed just 170 minutes of Premier League action from United’s first 12 games.

At the start of the campaign, Amorim reiterated that Mainoo is in direct competition with Bruno Fernandes for a starting berth. Mainoo’s recent substitute appearance against Everton only highlighted how ring-rusty he is, given his limited minutes this season.

Eager to secure a spot in the England squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Mainoo requested United to sanction a loan exit during the final stages of the summer transfer window. The club declined.

It’s believed that Mainoo remains open to a January loan switch if his situation doesn’t improve. There is no shortage of interest in him, with the likes of Napoli and Arsenal mentioned as some of the parties eyeing him.

However, Amorim made it clear that Mainoo will not be permitted to leave unless it’s in the club’s best interests.

As the saga rumbles on, TuttoJuve have revealed that Juventus have stormed into the race for the 20-year-old’s signature. It’s understood that Juventus are plotting to pluck the United homegrown midfield talent as they did with Pogba many years ago.

Juventus make Mainoo decision

TuttoJuve acknowledge that Mainoo is a “priority” for Napoli boss Antonio Conte, who believes he requires more options in the middle of the park.

Should Mainoo depart, United will almost certainly have to dip into the market for a replacement.

The report adds, “Ruben Amorim continues to reiterate that ‘anything can happen,’ leaving all options open for the January transfer window, especially if a suitable offer is received by the management.”

“Juventus are interested in the player, and they could try a Pogba 2.0.”

Mainoo’s United contract expires in 2007 and talks over a new deal have yet to reach a fruitful conclusion.

Featured image George Wood via Getty Images

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