Kobbie Mainoo: Leeds weighing up “ambitious” loan move for unsettled star | OneFootball

Leeds United are reportedly contemplating a shock loan swoop for Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo.

Mainoo could leave United before close of the window

Earlier on Monday, a report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Mainoo is open to parting ways with United before deadline day.

Mainoo has had a difficult start to the season amidst indications that he isn’t a key part of Ruben Amorim’s plans.

The England international was an unused substitute in United’s first two games of the 2025/26 Premier League season against Arsenal and Fulham. In both matches, Amorim favoured a starting midfield pair of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro.

Even when making substitutes, Amorim has so far demonstrated a preference for Manuel Ugarte – a decision that has not gone down well with some fans due to the Uruguayan’s underwhelming performances. At Craven Cottage, United had little to no control in the middle of the park, which made Mainoo’s snubbing that little bit more bizarre.

After the final whistle, Amorim told reporters that Mainoo is battling Fernandes for a starting berth.

It’s believed that Mainoo would consider any offers that come in for him as he is keen to play regularly and challenge for a place in the England squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are some of the clubs that Mainoo has been linked with. Now, a report has claimed that Leeds are also keeping close tabs on the situation.

Leeds interested in Mainoo

MOT Leeds News say, “Kobbie Mainoo has emerged as an ambitious target for Leeds United.”

“Sources close to Leeds have suggested that the Whites had earmarked Mainoo as a soft target upon their promotion from the Championship.”

“At this stage, it’s unlikely that Man United would sanction a loan move to another Premier League club given his contract situation, but that could change if the player grows unsettled in the final days of the window.”

MOT Leeds News note that the Yorkshire outfit’s interest in Mainoo has been made more urgent by Ethan Ampadu’s injury. The Welshman is expected to be out until after the September international break.

Despite the uncertainty around Mainoo’s situation, United are unlikely to sanction a loan move, especially to old foes Leeds. It’s best to wait for confirmation from more reliable sources.

Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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