Chelsea 'lead race' to sign Man Utd superstar Kobbie Mainoo

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 7 Jan 2025 15:36 GMT
• 3 min read

Breaking

Chelsea are reportedly leading the race to sign England midfielder Kobbie Mainoo if he leaves Manchester United this year.

The 19-year-old was named as an “untouchable” at Old Trafford during Erik ten Hag’s time at the club, but recent reports suggest that a sale could take place amid his current contract situation.

The Athletic’s David Ornstein has hinted that Mainoo could leave Man Utd, while The Daily Mail have now reported that Chelsea are “leading the chase” for his signature.

READ MORE: Chelsea flop 'hopeful' of transfer after broken Maresca promise

Mainoo’s current contract at Man Utd is due to expire in 2027 and while the club have been locked in extension talks for several months, a new deal is yet to be finalised and negotiations have stalled.

As a result, Chelsea are now monitoring his situation as they eye a sensational move for the England star, according to The Daily Mail’s Chris Wheeler.

Enzo Maresca already has a strong midfield core at his disposal, including Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez and Romeo Lavia, while Andrey Santos and Lesley Ugochukwu are both set to return from loan this summer.

READ MORE: Rashford exit picking up steam as Man Utd receive SEVERAL offers

However, Cesare Casadei, Carney Chukwuemeka and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall could all leave Stamford Bridge in 2025, and Chelsea are now keeping tabs on Mainoo.

The Blues have prioritised signing the best young talents across world football since Clearlake Capital’s arrival in 2022, and Mainoo could become the latest starlet to join the club if he opts to leave Man Utd.

Kobbie Mainoo to leave Man Utd?

Mainoo has made a total of 52 first-team appearances for Man Utd, since breaking into the senior side last season, and he has started 12 Premier League games so far this campaign.

He impressed during the Red Devils' 2-2 draw against Liverpool on Sunday and has previously been identified as a key part of the club's future.

However, a sale could now be on the cards, as the club looks to meet Financial Fair Play requirements, and Chelsea are eager to pounce amid their pursuit of a first Premier League title since 2017.