Fabrizio Romano: Manchester United ‘closing in’ on deal with ‘phenomenal’ midfielder

Manchester United are closing in on a new deal for star midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, as per the latest from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. 

The 20-year-old is expected to commit his long-term future at Old Trafford with a deal that will run until 2031.

As per Romano, the negotiations which have been ongoing since January are ‘close’ to completion, with the club ‘optimistic’ of sealing a deal.

A new deal for the academy star has been a priority for the club since his resurgence under Michael Carrick,

? Manchester United are closing in on new deal for Kobbie Mainoo after talks reported since January — valid until June 2031.

New deal for Kobbie was a priority since he returned key player under Carrick. ??

Final details needed, not done yet but close + #MUFC optimistic. ??? pic.twitter.com/pHOiNiQfsU

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 24, 2026

New deal for Kobbie Mainoo a priority for Man United

Securing Mainoo’s future has been labeled a ‘priority’ for the INEOS-led hierarchy following a turbulent period for the academy graduate.

Currently one of the club’s lowest earners at approximately £20,000 per week, the new agreement is set to reflect his status as a cornerstone of the first team.

The proposed five-year extension (with an option for a further year) serves as a significant reward for a player who, just months ago, appeared to be heading for the exit door.

Romano indicates that the club are determined to wrap up the paperwork before the end of the season to ward off interest from European rivals, with United officials confident that the ‘phenomenal‘ youngster will sign in the coming weeks.

Kobbie Mainoo’s resurgence under Michael Carrick has been remarkable

The contract breakthrough marks a stunning U-turn in Mainoo’s Manchester United career.

During the first half of the 2025/26 campaign, Mainoo found himself outcasted under former manager Ruben Amorim.

However, the appointment of Michael Carrick as head coach in January 2026 changed everything.

Carrick, who coached Mainoo during his time in the United academy, immediately restored the youngster to the starting XI.

Reverting to a 4-2-3-1 system, Carrick has built his midfield around Mainoo’s composure and line-breaking ability.

Under Carrick’s tutelage, United have won seven of their last ten games, climbing to third in the Premier League.

Mainoo’s form has been so impressive that it earned him a recall to Thomas Tuchel’s England squad this month, his first international call-up in 18 months, solidifying his position as one of the most important players at United.

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