Manchester United Plan Key Transfer Talks with Mainoo and Zirkzee Before January
Manchester United are preparing for a tense few weeks as reports indicate that crucial discussions have been scheduled with Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee ahead of the January transfer window. Both players are reportedly unhappy with their limited roles under manager Ruben Amorim and are seeking clear answers about their futures before the new year.
Getty Images Sport
Mainoo’s England Worries Intensify
Kobbie Mainoo’s situation has quickly shifted from promise to concern. The 20-year-old midfielder, once hailed as England’s next midfield star after his standout Euro 2024 campaign, is now battling to keep his international hopes alive. Mainoo has been overlooked for both the September and October England squads due to his lack of minutes at club level, raising fears about his place in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup plans for 2026.
This season, Mainoo has made just six appearances, totaling 203 minutes, sparking anxiety over his development. According to ESPN, Manchester United are planning to open new contract talks to reassure the youngster of his importance to Amorim’s long-term project, despite his current limited involvement.
Zirkzee Faces Uncertain Future
Joshua Zirkzee’s challenges at Old Trafford have continued to mount. Following his €42.5 million (£37m) transfer from Bologna last year, the Dutch forward has struggled for playing time, featuring for only 82 minutes across four substitute appearances. His exclusion from Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands squad has added to the growing pressure to find a solution.
Zirkzee’s lack of opportunities behind Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko, and Bryan Mbeumo has left him seeking a route back to consistent football. Club insiders believe that United’s upcoming transfer meetings could determine whether he remains part of Amorim’s plans or secures a temporary move away in January.
Serie A Interest in Both Players
Interest from Italy is intensifying for both Mainoo and Zirkzee. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Napoli are preparing a renewed approach for Mainoo after failing to sign him in the summer. The Serie A champions are expected to propose a short-term loan deal without a purchase clause, allowing United to retain long-term control over the midfielder. Napoli view Mainoo as a dynamic option to strengthen their midfield and are confident that United may be more open to negotiations this time, particularly given the player’s wish for regular minutes.
AS Roma, now managed by Gian Piero Gasperini, are reportedly eyeing Zirkzee for a loan spell to revitalize his form. The Italian side are said to be willing to cover €1.8 million of his wages, making the move financially viable. Amorim and United’s leadership team are set to review Roma’s proposal in their upcoming transfer meetings but are cautious about reducing squad depth midway through the campaign.
Historic Record on the Line for Manchester United
Beyond the transfer implications, Mainoo’s potential exit could have historical consequences for the club. Manchester United have maintained a remarkable tradition since October 1937 — fielding at least one academy graduate in every matchday squad for 87 consecutive years. Mainoo was the only homegrown player named in the squad during the club’s recent fixture against Sunderland. His departure, even on loan, could end that legacy.
Amorim has previously highlighted the significance of that record, stating, “We want to maintain it. The past of Manchester United is built on kids. I don’t want to be the guy that breaks that.” The coming weeks are likely to determine whether that proud lineage continues or faces an unprecedented pause.
Comments
Post a Comment