Overview

• Football Insider reporting relayed by CaughtOffside says Manchester United plan to block a January exit for Kobbie Mainoo despite interest from Newcastle.
• Multiple outlets cite Defensa Central in claiming United have discussed offering Mainoo plus about £44m for Valverde, but Spanish reports describe the Uruguayan as non-transferable.
• OneFootball and TEAMtalk report Spurs and Chelsea are viewed as more realistic destinations than Real Madrid if Mainoo pursues a move, with suitors questioning a mooted £70m valuation.
• Ruben Amorim has publicly backed Mainoo’s potential but insists he must compete for minutes with Bruno Fernandes, contributing to the youngster’s limited game time this season.
• Mainoo has yet to start a Premier League match and is weighing playing-time needs ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with his contract at Old Trafford running to 2027.