Chelsea are set to try to sign Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo in January transfer window if the England international indicates an interest in a move, according to a report.
Earlier this week, a report emerged out of nowhere claiming that Chelsea were “leading the race“to sign Mainoo amid a lack of progress in negotiations over a new contract at Old Trafford.
This led to a series of reports about Mainoo’s future at United, which no longer sees 19-year-old academy graduate as ‘untouchable’ due to Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s desire to raise money to use in the transfer market.
While Chelsea’s interest in Mainoo appeared to be geared towards a cut-price deal down the road, The Times indicates a move could be made as soon as this month if Mainoo shows interest.
Mainoo has a contract with united until 2027, with a 12-month extension clause effectively tying him down to 2028. The Red Devils have no active desire to sell Mainoo and remain willing to reward his emergence with a new contract, but their need to sell earlier of buying new players has forced them to agree that all players currently on the books can be signed for the right price.
Sky Sports News insists Mainoo is not unhappy with United, who are believed to have privately confirmed to the teenager that he is seen as a key part of the club’s future.
If Mainoo keeps his commitment to United, one step Chelsea would prove incredibly tricky as while the Red Devils would be interested in the pure profits made from selling academy talent, they would likely demand a huge figure for a player whose contract gives them control of the situation during the next three years
