Mainoo and Manchester United at a standstill over new contract, with the young midfielder demanding a salary that recognises his value to the team.
Mainoo wants to stay at Old Trafford
The young midfielder is keen to extend his stay with his boyhood club, but he's not going to settle for any old salary. He wants a salary that reflects his importance to the team, and who can blame him? In the region of £150,000-a-week is what he's after, and if Manchester United aren't willing to cough up, then Chelsea are waiting in the wings, ready to pounce.
United's PSR concerns
The Red Devils know that if they sell Mainoo this summer, it would help with their Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) concerns. They ended last season with losses of £113.2million, but selling Mainoo would represent 100 per cent profit as he's an academy graduate. It's a tough decision for United, but if they want to balance the books, they may have to let him go.
Mainoo's rapid rise
Last season, Mainoo emerged as one of the Premier League's breakout stars, establishing himself at the heart of United's midfield and earning a spot in England's Euro 2024 squad. He was even nominated for the 2024 Golden Boy award, with many tipping him to continue his strong form this term. However, injuries and positional changes have limited his impact, and he's only made 15 Premier League starts this season.
Injury setback
To make matters worse, Mainoo picked up an injury in training last month and is expected to be ruled out until April. It's a frustrating setback for the young midfielder, who will be desperate to prove his worth to United and secure the salary he feels he deserves.
In conclusion, Mainoo's future at Manchester United is uncertain. He wants to stay, but he also wants to be paid what he's worth. United, on the other hand, are facing PSR concerns and may have to sell him to balance the books. It's a messy situation, and it remains to be seen how it will play out. One thing's for sure, though - Mainoo is a talent worth fighting for, and United would be foolish to let him go without a fight.
