Not Zirkzee: Club have now contacted Man Utd to sign "fantastic" star in surprise deal

Turkish heavyweights Besiktas have contacted Manchester United over a possible loan deal for midfielder Kobbie Mainoo during the winter transfer window, according to Sabah (page 15).

The Red Devils had an inconsistent first half to the Premier League season, and they will be aiming for a better start to 2026 to keep themselves in the hunt for Champions League football.

Joshua Zirkzee’s future has been a topic of speculation in recent weeks, and it has been claimed that he could be on his way out of Old Trafford, with Roma pushing to land his services.

Amidst this, Turkish outlet Sabah report that Besiktas have made contact with the Red Devils and are exploring an 18-month loan deal for Mainoo, who has struggled for regular minutes.

Mainoo unlikely to join Besiktas on loan

The 20-year-old had a tough first half to the season under manager Ruben Amorim. He has yet to start a league game for the Red Devils.

Mainoo, described as ‘fantastic‘ by Victor Lindelof, has largely played second fiddle to Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes in midfield.

Casemiro’s suspension could have paved the way for Mainoo’s return to the XI, but he ended up suffering an untimely calf injury.

United have since lost Bruno Fernandes with a hamstring issue, but Mainoo has yet to regain full fitness to get back into the team.

He should be available at some point later this month, and it would be a huge surprise if United contemplate a loan exit.

Mainoo believes he has a future at the Red Devils and is now prepared to fight for it.

He is obviously desperate for regular playing time in order to have an outside chance of making England’s World Cup squad.

A loan move to Besiktas does not make sense, as he is unlikely to get back into England contention by playing in the Turkish top flight.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .