Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly keen to leave Old Trafford in the January transfer window, according to the latest transfer gossip. The 20‑year‑old England international feels he has little chance of regular football under manager Rúben Amorim this season, and he would consider a move away to find more playing time and revive his career.
Mainoo burst onto the scene as one of Manchester United’s most exciting young talents, but this season he has found game time hard to come by. With Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro preferred in the midfield spots, Mainoo has often been used mainly as a substitute, leaving him frustrated and wanting more opportunities on the pitch.
Recent reports suggest that Mainoo sees no clear future for himself at United and would be open to leaving if the right offer arrives. Italian club Napoli is said to be making a strong push for him, with talks reportedly progressing well on the player’s side. Mainoo is said to be particularly interested in a move to Naples, and he has already “said yes” to the idea of joining them on loan or potentially a permanent deal in January.
Despite Mainoo’s desire to leave, Manchester United are not currently planning to sell him unless they receive an exceptional offer. The club value him highly and see him as part of their long‑term plans, even if his lack of recent minutes has raised doubts over his future. United would rather keep him and help him fight for a place in the team, and they have no intention of letting him go on loan without the right terms.
The situation has also sparked some controversy off the pitch. Mainoo’s half‑brother made headlines by wearing a “Free Kobbie Mainoo” T‑shirt at a recent United match, adding fuel to the rumours about his unhappy spell at the club. This rare public gesture highlighted just how tense things have become around the young midfielder’s future.
As January approaches, all eyes will be on Mainoo’s future. If he does leave, it could open the door for a fresh challenge in Serie A or elsewhere, helping him get the regular football he wants. But for now, Manchester United remain firm they want to keep the academy graduate, believing he still has a bright future at Old Trafford if he can secure more opportunities to play.
