What Kobbie Mainoo’s agent is now demanding from Man United after Tottenham’s approach to sign him
Tottenham Hotspur Eye Kobbie Mainoo as Contract Talks Stall at Manchester United
Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly keeping a close eye on the contract situation of highly rated midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, as the youngster’s future at Manchester United becomes increasingly uncertain. According to an exclusive report from TBR Football, Spurs are now showing serious interest in the 20-year-old amid growing doubts over whether he will commit to a long-term future at Old Trafford.
Mainoo, who broke into the Manchester United first team last season and quickly became one of their standout performers, is currently under contract until 2027. However, while the Red Devils do have the option to extend his deal by an additional year, talks over a renewed and improved contract have been ongoing for more than 12 months without any resolution. Despite the club’s desire to tie him down for the long term, discussions have hit a frustrating stalemate.
Tottenham, who struggled for consistent quality in midfield under Ange Postecoglou last season, are now sensing an opportunity. With Thomas Frank set to take charge and reshape the squad in his own image, a player of Mainoo’s profile would be a major coup. The England international possesses the technical skill, vision, and maturity beyond his years to slot straight into Spurs’ midfield and help elevate the club in their push for Champions League qualification.
Dean Saunders: Mainoo’s Camp Not Demanding a Fortune
Adding a layer of insight into the situation, former Premier League striker and talkSPORT pundit Dean Saunders recently shed light on Mainoo’s contract standoff. Speaking on air, Saunders revealed that he knows Mainoo’s agent personally and that the financial demands being made are far from excessive.
“I know his agent, and he’s not asking for too much money in comparison to what some of the other players at Manchester United are earning,” Saunders explained. “But this is where it becomes tricky for the club. You’ve got a young player who’s barely played a full season, but he’s now a full England international and is a regular starter for Manchester United. Meanwhile, he’s surrounded by players on three or four times his wages. How do you balance that?”
Saunders added that United are caught in a bind — either they meet Mainoo’s salary expectations now to protect their asset or risk losing him, possibly even for a cut-price fee or, eventually, on a free transfer. “If he’s not going to sign a new deal, they’ll be forced to sell,” he said. “Otherwise, they risk losing a top talent for nothing. And I’ll be honest, I think he’d walk straight into Spurs’ starting XI.”
Positional Uncertainty Under Amorim Could Accelerate Exit
While Mainoo’s talent is unquestionable, there is still some confusion at Manchester United — particularly under new manager Ruben Amorim — about how best to utilize him. Despite an excellent season in which he made 37 appearances across all competitions, Mainoo was occasionally played in unfamiliar roles, including a surprising 70-minute appearance as a striker. This decision raised eyebrows and led many to question the tactical clarity of the coaching staff regarding the youngster’s ideal position.
Following his impressive performances for England at Euro 2024, many observers believe Mainoo thrives in a hybrid number six/eight role — offering both defensive stability and transitional drive in midfield. However, Amorim has yet to define his long-term role, and this uncertainty could be another factor pushing Mainoo toward the exit door.
Why Tottenham Could Be the Perfect Fit
Tottenham’s midfield has been an area of concern, lacking depth, composure, and control in key moments throughout the 2024/25 campaign. Injuries to key players like Rodrigo Bentancur and inconsistent form from others left a gaping hole in Spurs’ engine room. The addition of a technically gifted and tactically intelligent midfielder like Mainoo could solve a number of issues.
At Spurs, Mainoo would likely be given more freedom to grow under a manager who appreciates fluid, progressive football. Thomas Frank, known for developing young talent and encouraging a high-intensity style, could offer Mainoo the ideal platform to further his development while becoming a cornerstone of Tottenham’s new midfield core.
Manchester United’s Dilemma
For United, the pressure is mounting. Mainoo is widely viewed as one of the brightest young prospects to emerge from the club’s academy in recent years, and allowing him to slip away would be seen as a significant failure of long-term planning. However, unless a breakthrough in contract negotiations is found soon, the club may be forced to consider offers, especially if Spurs — or other suitors — come forward with a substantial bid.
Given the current deadlock, Tottenham’s interest appears to be more than just speculation. It is a calculated move to exploit uncertainty at a rival club and secure a player who could make a huge difference both immediately and in the years to come.