Reports suggest that Tottenham may consider making a move for Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo before the transfer window shuts.
Brentford’s pursuit of Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze has been derailed after Arsenal swooped in to hijack the deal.
Brentford’s pursuit of Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze has been derailed after Arsenal swooped in to hijack the deal.
Even so, Thomas Frank’s team remains keen on securing an attacking midfielder, especially with James Maddison facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to an injury picked up in pre-season.
Rúben Amorim, however, has shown little enthusiasm for Kobbie Mainoo. The England international was left on the bench during United’s 1-0 loss to Arsenal last weekend, with Amorim instead preferring Manuel Ugarte to replace the tiring Casemiro.
During pre-season, the Portuguese coach also voiced his concerns about Mainoo’s style of play, pointing out that while he is highly talented, he tends to slow down possession:
“His best role is close to the ball, always involved in play. He’s a fantastic prospect, but he must raise his tempo and intensity. I push him on that constantly, because while he’s already very good, he can still improve.”
With Amorim not viewing him as a central figure in his plans, Manchester United could be willing to part ways with the midfielder. Since Mainoo qualifies as homegrown, any sale would count as pure profit on the club’s financial books. Proceeds from such a move might then be reinvested into signing a midfielder more aligned with Amorim’s tactical preferences, while supporters are also eager to see a new goalkeeper brought in.