Manchester United have reached a full agreement with midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, 21, on a new long-term contract extending until June 2031, according to Fabrizio Romano. The deal reflects Mainoo's status as a central pillar of the club's future, increasing his weekly salary from approximately £25,000 to a base of £120,000 plus performance-related bonuses. Complementing this long-term commitment, club leadership has privately assured captain Bruno Fernandes that he will not be sold in the 2026 summer window despite persistent interest from the Saudi Pro League.
United prioritise stability and youth retention
The contract extension marks a significant turnaround for Mainoo, who reportedly considered a loan move to Napoli in December 2025 during a period of tactical uncertainty under former manager Ruben Amorim. Reporting on the deal, Fabrizio Romano stated that the agreement has been "approved by the legal side of the club and the legal side of the agency managing Mainoo." Since Michael Carrick took over as interim manager in January 2026, the academy graduate has become an ever-present in the starting XI, helping United climb to third in the Premier League. This five-year extension, with the option for further years likely included, protects the value of a player who has evolved from a rotational prospect into a full England international within eighteen months.
Clearing the wage bill for a midfield refresh
While Mainoo and Fernandes are secured, United are preparing for a significant clearing of the ranks in central midfield to satisfy Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Mirroring reports from Al Jazeera, veteran midfielder Casemiro is expected to depart as a free agent at the end of the 2025/26 season. Discussing the Brazilian's future, Michael Carrick noted that "the plan is still for him to part ways" despite his contributions. Manuel Ugarte is also understood to be a candidate for departure as the club moves away from the high-wage profiles that defined previous recruitment cycles. Removing Casemiro’s significant salary—previously estimated at over £300,000 per week—provides the financial headroom for Mainoo’s quadrupled wages and further summer investment.
With the legal formalities completed, Manchester United are expected to formally announce Mainoo's extension before the conclusion of the current Premier League campaign.