A highly-rated Premier League midfielder is more likely to end up at Tottenham or Chelsea despite claims made about Real Madrid’s interest.
It would appear, based on reports over the last few weeks, that the midfield area is one Thomas Frank wants to strengthen in January.
A number of outlets have reported that Spurs may be ready to reignite their interest in Kobbie Mainoo in January as he struggles to force himself into Rubem Amorim’s starting eleven
According to some sources, Newcastle United are ready to challenge Tottenham for Mainoo, but they may not be the only ones that the Lilywhites may need to worry about in the race for the Man United man.
Tottenham a more likely landing spot for Kobbie Mainoo than Real Madrid
Over recent days, some Spanish outlets have claimed that Real Madrid are willing to spend big to land Mainoo in January (Defensa Central).
It has been alleged that they would be willing to pay £70m for the 20-year-old, but journalist Dean Jones has disputed that figure and suggested that the player is more likely to move to Spurs or their London rivals, Chelsea.
Reacting to the speculation linking Mainoo with a move to the Spanish capital, Jones told TEAMtalk: “It’s important to note that Mainoo would not cost the £70m I have seen touted recently. His contract situation does not reflect that in the market and nor does the importance United are putting on him.
“So, some teams will be looking at him as a potentially good value pick-up. There’s nothing concrete in the links with Madrid right now, but many teams are watching his situation and this upcoming decision on a transfer is a tricky one.
“Personally, I would look at Spurs or Chelsea as more realistic potential landing spots, but I’m told he still really wants United to work out as his priority.”
Mainoo urged to remain at Man United
Various outlets have said that Mainoo is growing frustrated with his lack of game time at Old Trafford, especially in the lead-up to a World Cup year.
However, Jones believes that it would be in the midfielder’s interest to stay at the Manchester club as Amorim’s days at the helm seem numbered.
The journalist added: “If we look at the situation carefully, it might be worth him hanging around. If he outlives Amorim at the club, then there is every chance the next boss would embrace him – and suddenly he’s back to being the poster boy. He will have to weigh that up by the time January rolls around.”