Man Utd ‘progressing’ deal for wonderkid in Ratcliffe’s first major move

Robin Bairner

8 Mar 2024 07:24 GMT
3 min read

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Man Utd, 2023/24 — © IMAGO

Manchester United are said to be “progressing” in contract talks with Kobbie Mainoo, who has quickly established himself as a favourite of the Old Trafford crowd this season.

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Mainoo, 18, was earmarked for a first-team role by manager Erik ten Hag in the summer, having made his debut early in 2023 against Charlton in the Carabao Cup.

An ankle injury has prevented the teenager from making the impact he might have done in the first team, yet since returning from that problem in November, he has gradually earned himself a starting spot.

His performances have increased the urgency to tie him down to a contract extension.

Mainoo’s current deal runs out in 2027, although Man Utd have an option to extend that by one year.

HITC reports that Sir Jim Ratcliffe has given the green light for new contract talks, with the Old Trafford side eager to send positive signals to their young talents over the rewards that can be earned with impressive performances.

© IMAGO - Mainoo in action for England U21s

Mainoo’s new Man Utd contract

There is no indication of how Mainoo’s contract will be enhanced, yet his increased status in the squad will surely see him earn a healthy raise.

On top of this, Ratcliffe’s long-term strategy at Man Utd will be unveiled a little by the contract length of the wonderkid. Will he adopt a traditional approach and give Mainoo a four- or five-year deal, or will he follow Chelsea in giving the teen a contract that runs until early next decade and take the risk that the midfielder maintains his excellent attitude?

Despite interest from Ghana, Mainoo is expected to win a first England cap imminently. Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate has admitted he is following the teen’s progress.

“He’s doing brilliantly, I’m not certain he’s necessarily going to be a defensive midfielder, as such,” Southgate said.

“He’s quite a progressive player but he’s had a fabulous start to his career and it will be good to monitor him as we go forward.”

Mainoo is a young midfielder with the world at his feet, and it appears he will be Manchester United's for the foreseeable future.