Manchester City Have Set Their Sights On This Manchester United Midfielder: Good Option For Pep? | OneFootball

In a recent report, journalist Fraser Fletcher claimed that Manchester City have set their sights on Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. It has been mentioned that the Mancunian club are showing interest in recruiting the English midfield ace, but could face competition from Chelsea and Newcastle United in pursuit of him next year.

Mainoo’s Recent Season In The Premier League

Mainoo had a solid campaign at the Mancunian club in the previous campaign, but struggled to find consistency for them in the Premier League. The English midfield ace scored two goals and earned one assist in 37 matches for the Red Devils last season across various competitions.

The 20-year-old offered decent protection for his teammates at the back as he made 46 tackles, 16 blocks, 19 interceptions and 14 clearances in the Premier League. He was even tidy when distributing possession from midfield after making 86.5% of his attempted passes in the English first division (stats via fbref.com).

His current contract at the Mancunian club will run out in the summer of 2027. Thus, Man City could potentially sign him on a cut-price deal at the end of this campaign.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – AUGUST 09: Kobbie Mainoo of Manchester United warms up during the pre-season friendly match between Manchester United and ACF Fiorentina at Old Trafford on August 09, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

Will Mainoo Be A Good Option For Manchester City?

Mainoo loves a tackle and can sense the danger well to secure possession back for his team inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball when required and is a tidy passer of the ball.

The English sensation is primarily a box-to-box midfielder but can also operate as a defensive midfielder or play in the number ten position if required. He has already got some experience in the Premier League and won’t take much time to adjust to life at Man City.

We can expect Mainoo to bring more quality and depth to Pep Guardiola’s midfield. He is good enough to challenge for a regular first-team spot at the Mancunian club in the coming years.

At 20, Mainoo has the potential to be a world-class player in his position someday. Hence, he would be an excellent option for Man City to consider this January or at the end of this campaign. However, he is far from a finished product and would need time to find consistency in the Premier League if Guardiola manages to bring him on board next year.