Exclusive: Manchester United progress with significant new deal

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HITC understands that Manchester United are progressing with their talks over Kobbie Mainoo’s new deal as he celebrated his call-up to the full England squad.

Kobbie Mainoo was added to the Three Lions main squad for their friendlies against Brazil and Spain.

The teenage midfielder has now linked up with Gareth Southgate’s squad after being added to the current squad and there is now real hope that he can push himself into plans for the European Championships in Germany this summer.

Previously having played for England at Under-17 and Under-19 level – he was already at St George’s Park ready to feature for the Under-21s before Southgate made the decision to add him to the main squad.

“I was with the under‑21s and I got a text from [the England assistant manager] Steve Holland telling me to come and meet him at reception. He just told me I’ve been called up,” he told England’s X account.

“I don’t think it’s sunk in yet, but I’m excited. [My family] are all buzzing.”

Talks accelerate

United sources have confirmed to HITC that talks have accelerated in recent weeks following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS taking a minority stake in the club which puts them in charge of the footballing department at Old Trafford.

HITC revealed at the start of February that Ratcliffe had sanctioned a deal for Mainoo could go through, despite the fact they are still waiting to finalise some of their key appointments – like sporting director with Dan Asworth’s yet to seal his move from Newcastle United.

But United are determined not to let anything get in the way of key deals and Mainoo signing an extension is sign as something the club that can’t be put on the back-burner.

Pay rise

Mainoo himself has been told to concentrate on his club form which has seen him earn England honours, while his representatives finalise talks with United’s top-brass – which will see him receive a substantial pay rise.

The 18-year-old is contracted to the club until 2027 already with an option, and this will be extended further.

Sources with knowledge of the situation have confirmed to HITC that a deal could be done by Easter as talks ‘are progressing well’ and there is little to stop an agreement being reached sooner rather than later.