Manchester United Prepare for Transfer Discussions with Mainoo and Zirkzee
Manchester United is set to engage in negotiations with Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee as the January transfer window approaches, according to sources. Both players are reportedly anxious about their limited playing time under head coach Ruben Amorim.
Mainoo, a 20-year-old midfielder, had his request for a loan move away from Old Trafford denied at the end of the summer transfer period. To date, he has not made a start in any Premier League matches this season.
Similarly, Zirkzee has also yet to start a league game and has only played 74 minutes in three matches, while Mainoo has accumulated 113 minutes across five appearances.
After being overlooked for selection in the England squad for the international fixtures in September and October, Mainoo, who began in the Euro 2024 final loss to Spain, is anxious about his chances of securing a place in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup plans.
Zirkzee also recognizes the necessity of gaining more playing time to enhance his chances of being included in the Netherlands squad for the upcoming tournament set for June in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
ESPN sources indicate that Napoli, who expressed interest in Mainoo during August, could be a viable option should he decide to move. Interest also exists from various Premier League clubs and teams from the Bundesliga.
Additionally, Zirkzee has been associated with a potential return to Serie A.
Any transfer arrangement for Mainoo or Zirkzee would require approval from Manchester United. Club sources have noted that, despite their challenges in breaking into Amorim’s starting eleven, both players are still considered vital members of the matchday setup.
Discussions are anticipated to occur prior to the January window, should the situation regarding their playing time not improve.
As an added pressure, Mainoo carries the weight of an academy record that has stood for over 87 years. Manchester United has included at least one academy graduate in every matchday squad since October 1937. During the last match against Sunderland, Mainoo was the sole eligible player from the academy, and his departure could jeopardize this impressive streak.
“We want to maintain it,” said Amorim in September. “The past of Manchester United is built on kids. I don’t want to be the guy that breaks that.”
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