Carrick revolution: INEOS finally decide fate of two Man United stars
Manchester United have taken a big step towards shaping their squad for the 2026-27 season.
According to The Athletic, United are close to an agreement with Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire over new contracts.
Mainoo is currently under contract at United until June 2027. The club have the option to extend his deal for another year.
However, securing his long-term future has become a priority, especially given his status as one of the lowest earners in the squad.
United are keen to reward his rise by elevating him into a pay bracket more in line with his teammates.
The Red Devils are now pushing to tie the 20-year-old down to a long-term contract running until the summer of 2031.
Last summer, the situation looked very different, with Mainoo reportedly eager to leave on loan after being overlooked by former manager Ruben Amorim.
Amorim tasked him with an impossible job of replacing Bruno Fernandes in the starting XI. Had the Portuguese coach remained in charge, Mainoo might well have been heading towards the exit door.
Interim manager Michael Carrick has shown unwavering faith in Mainoo, starting him in the last 10 games.
The United academy graduate is not the only one who has enjoyed a resurgence under Carrick.
Harry Maguire has stepped up immensely in the absence of Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt.
He has been defensively solid and a vocal leader at the back. He was harshly shown a straight red card in the second half during the 2-2 draw with Bournemouth.
It remains to be seen whether United will appeal the decision in a bid to reduce his suspension.
Irrespective of the result at the Vitality Stadium, there is no doubt that he deserves a new contract.
The club are reportedly preparing to offer him a one-year extension, with the option of a further 12 months.
In our view, INEOS must act decisively to secure both players and remove any lingering uncertainty over their futures.
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Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .