Sky Sports: Man United set to ‘open talks’ over deal for midfielder

Key Highlights

• Initial contact has already been made with Mainoo’s representatives, with plans to discuss a contract that better reflects his status and aligns his wages more closely with first team peers. Photo IMAGOContract context and shifting prioritiesMainoo’s situation has long felt out of step with his importance.
• As an academy graduate, his salary remains among the lowest in the senior squad, despite his growing influence.
• With 18 months left on his current deal, plus a one year option, there had been no immediate urgency, particularly while former head coach Ruben Amorim did not see him as central to plans. Photo IMAGOAdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThat stance attracted interest elsewhere.
• Napoli were among the European clubs monitoring his situation, and there were reports the England international was open to a loan move for more minutes.
• United, however, were clear they would not entertain that option, insisting Mainoo remained part of the club’s long term vision. Carrick influence and derby impactA managerial change has altered the picture.