Latest developments
- Manchester United are yet to find an agreement with Kobbie Mainoo over a new deal.
- The stalemate has led to suggestions of a surprise summer sale to Chelsea.
- Cole Palmer has further fuelled speculation through his social media activity.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Palmer sends fans into a frenzy
Manchester United and Kobbie Mainoo's representatives have reached a stalemate over a new deal amid Mainoo's concerns over the direction of the club. This has thrown Chelsea‘s name into the mix, with the Blues being considered early favourites to sign the midfielder should United decide to sell.
The story comes from The Mirror, who also report that Palmer liked an Instagram post concerning Chelsea's chances of signing Mainoo.
Value (4/5): Worth a significant outlay
It is very early stages in this transfer saga, so United's asking price for Mainoo remains unknown. The England international is valued at £45.6 million by Transfermarkt. Still, considering his talents and reputation, expect the Red Devils to demand nearly double of that figure in the summer.
Such is Mainoo's potential that anything less than £100 million would be reasonable. Chelsea have spent similar figures on worse players.
Suitability (3.5/5): Box-to-box prodigy
Mainoo thrives as a number eight in a double pivot, wherein he has freedom to move higher up the field. His immense stature and composure in possession means he is comfortable with the ball at his feet in any situation. The dynamic 19-year-old could seamlessly occupy one of the two midfield positions behind the number 10 Palmer in Enzo Maresca's 4-2-3-1.
Upgrade? (4/5): Better than Enzo Fernandez
In most matches this season, Enzo Fernandez has partnered the more defensively minded Moises Caicedo in Chelsea's midfield. The Argentine is also comfortable in possession, but he lacks Mainoo's ball-carrying ability and decision making to make any sizeable difference in the final third.
Logic (2/5): Unlikely switch
Man United are Mainoo's boyhood club, so he is unlikely to push for an exit. However, the opportunity to play alongside close England pal Palmer at Chelsea could force the young midfielder to consider his future.
There's also the fact that Chelsea appear to be in a better financial position to meet his wage demands, and their far superior position in the league table compared to United means they can more likely offer Champions League football in 2025/26.
Palmer also left his boyhood club (Man City) for Chelsea in 2023, and it is fair to say he has enjoyed a sensational time in London.
Whisper+ verdict: 16.5/25
Palmer's charm offensive may excite Chelsea fans but it is too early to have any considerable say in Mainoo's future. He is still tied to United until June 2027, and the club also have the option for a further 12 months.
