Manchester United have taken a decisive step in their long-term project by officially opening contract renewal talks with midfield prodigy Kobbie Mainoo. As of Friday, January 23, 2026, the club has made contact with the 20-year-old’s representatives to discuss a significant pay rise and a multi-year extension.
The news comes on the heels of Casemiro’s confirmed summer departure and marks a total "U-turn" in Mainoo's situation since the appointment of Michael Carrick as interim manager earlier this month.
From "Loan Request" to "Untouchable"
Just weeks ago, Mainoo’s future at Old Trafford looked bleak. Under former manager Ruben Amorim, the England international had struggled for minutes, leading to a "fragile" relationship with the board and a formal request to leave on loan this January, with Napoli emerging as frontrunners.
However, the landscape changed overnight:
The Carrick Connection: In his first game in charge, Michael Carrick started Mainoo in the Manchester Derby. Following United’s 2–0 victory over City, Carrick reportedly informed the youngster that he is "essential" to his plans.
The Casemiro Exit: With the club confirming that the Brazilian veteran will leave as a free agent in June, the path is now clear for Mainoo to become the undisputed heartbeat of United’s midfield for the next decade.
Salary Alignment: Currently one of the lowest earners in the first-team squad, the new deal is expected to bring Mainoo’s wages in line with established stars like Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Højlund.
The INEOS Vision: Ameesh Manek Takes the Lead
The negotiations are the first major test for United’s new leadership team. Ameesh Manek, the recently appointed Director of Football Operations (poached from Brentford), is reportedly overseeing the logistics of the deal. The goal for INEOS is simple: Lock down the "Class of '24" before the 2026 World Cup begins, ensuring no rival clubs can tempt their crown jewels away.
Michael Carrick (Post-Match): "I’ve known Kobbie a long time. He knows this club, he feels it. You don't let players like that walk out the door. You build around them."
The Verdict: By moving now, Manchester United are finally acting with the proactivity fans have craved. Mainoo isn't just a player; he is the symbol of the club's identity. If he puts pen to paper this month, it will be as big a "signing" as any arrival from the outside.