Yahoo News Kobbie Mainoo sends Manchester United clear message amid Man City transfer interest
Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has sent a clear message about his adoration for the club amid links with Manchester City.
Mainoo has enjoyed a breakthrough season with United, with his outstanding displays leading to the teenager earning his first England caps and becoming a potentially key player for the Three Lions at the upcoming Euros. This trajectory was earmarked for Mainoo during the summer, before his injury, when he impressed as part of Erik ten Hag’s side in pre-season.
There were reports in November that rivals Man City could look to try and tempt Mainoo away from Old Trafford. However, when celebrating his 19th birthday on Friday, Mainoo demonstrated his long-standing love for the club.
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As a young child, Mainoo spent time in both clubs' academies, but MEN Sport understands that United have always been relaxed about City’s interest in the midfielder. Posting on Instagram to mark his birthday, one of the photos showed a young Mainoo posing in a United shirt.
The picture proves Mainoo is United through and through - something perhaps picked up on when it was spotted by club captain Bruno Fernandes, who also shared it on his Instagram story as he wished his young teammate a happy birthday. Mainoo has become an integral part of Ten Hag’s team in a short space of time, starting the last 16 league games.
United have opened talks to extend Mainoo's contract in recognition of his growing importance to the first-team this season. The midfielder will receive a wage increase if he signs a new deal, but the Manchester Evening News understands all parties are relaxed about the situation and there is no rush to accelerate talks.
The midfielder will be eager to end his breakout season with silverware. United are preparing to take on Coventry City in an FA Cup semi-final at Wembley on Sunday as the team look to improve on last year’s runners-up medals.
