Kobbie Mainoo could leave Old Trafford
Image credit: Kobbie Mainoo Fan
Chelsea’s reported interest in signing Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has raised eyebrows in the football world.
According to former Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson, the potential move is a “surprise” given the midfield depth already at Enzo Maresca’s disposal.
Mainoo, whose contract negotiations with United have stalled under manager Ruben Amorim, has found himself at a crossroads.
The speculation about his departure has intensified, with Chelsea now linked to the England international.
However, Robinson questions how Mainoo would fit into Chelsea’s midfield, especially when all key players are fit.
“Surprise with Chelsea, absolutely,” Robinson said during a recent edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast.
But then you look at [Moises] Caicedo, [Enzo] Fernandez, and [Romeo] Lavia in their midfield. When everyone’s fit, would Mainoo get in the team? No, he wouldn’t.
Despite Chelsea’s current injury concerns, including Lavia’s absence, Robinson believes that when Lavia, Caicedo, and Fernandez are available, Mainoo might struggle for minutes.
He added:
Lavia has been one of the best players in the Premier League this year, he’s a top, top player.
The speculation comes amid reports that Mainoo’s future at United could be in jeopardy.
United’s tumultuous situation under Amorim, with several players potentially up for sale, has created uncertainty.
Robinson suggests that offloading Mainoo could help United free up wages and squad space, but he still sees it as a “surprise deal” on both ends.