'Looking forward' - Man United starlet looks set to stay at Old Trafford despite Chelsea links

Several questions remain unanswered at Manchester United as we enter the final few weeks of the transfer window with the new Premier League season fast approaching.

Four of Ruben Amorim’s five-man ‘bomb squad’ still remain with their futures undecided, while it is not yet known who will start in goal or up front for the Red Devils in 2025/26. If one thing is for certain, it is that improvement is demanded from last campaign and Amorim may not get the patience which he did in his first season at the club if things begin to go wrong.

It is therefore promising news that one of United’s prized assets is reportedly set to stay at the club beyond this summer, following speculation around a possible move away. In order for Amorim to build a squad capable of competing at the top end of the Premier League next season, it is important that the club’s few top performers of recent years stick around.

Kobbie Mainoo set to stay at Man United

According to Football Insider, United academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo is set to stay with the club despite previous links with a transfer to Chelsea earlier this summer. Mainoo joined United’s academy at the age of nine and his eleven years at the club are expected to continue after he reportedly won over Amorim, who now views him as an important member of the squad.

Mainoo struggled with injury last campaign and was often used as a substitute by Amorim when fit, as the Portuguese was reportedly unconvinced with the England international. This prompted tentative attempts at a January transfer by Chelsea, before the Blues expressed an interest once again this summer. Spurs also considered signing Mainoo, as per the report.

But a move has not progressed and the player is believed to want to stay and force his way into Amorim’s starting XI next season. A new contract for the 20-year-old has yet to be agreed upon, but that may end up progressing in the coming weeks and months.

Mainoo speaks on United’s new signings and his hopes for the season

Mainoo has recently given his verdict on United’s new signings and how things are shaping up for the new campaign. He said: "Adding Matheus [Cunha] brings something different again and I think it worked well in the last game. You can stitch him up [with a poor pass] and he'll deal with it! He loves playing under pressure and in one against ones, so it makes it easier for me.

"The team's definitely gelled well since we've been back and with the new additions - Diego [Leon], Matheus and Bryan [Mbeumo], it's been really good. It's been good, playing in there [midfield] with Manu [Ugarte], Bruno [Fernandes] or any of them - Casemiro, Toby [Collyer]. It's always good there. It's very hot out here and in New Jersey, but it's been nice. Training's been good, we got the first win against West Ham so we're all feeling good.”

Reflecting on his career so far, Mainoo said: "It's been a cool journey and I'm just looking forward to the season to see what happens.”