Three Premier League clubs who should fight for Kobbie Mainoo in January amid Man United exit links
Kobbie Mainoo has every chance of leaving Man United in January after failing to complete a summer deal away from Old Trafford.
Ruben Amorim has struggled to fit Mainoo in, with Bruno Fernandes dropping into a deeper role alongside Casemiro, and Manuel Ugarte being the back-up from the bench.
While the 20-year-old was on the bench as Man United drew 2-2 with Nottingham Forest, he was unable to add to his 138 Premier League minutes so far, leading to fans asking more questions about his future.
Over the last two campaigns, Mainoo has played a big role in the team’s performances, earning him rave reviews across Europe, so his massive dip this term should not be off-putting to these three clubs in January.
West Ham
Football Insider understands that Man United are unwilling to sell Mainoo, which means West Ham will need to be looking at a six-month loan deal, but Nuno Espirito Santo will not turn away from that.
One of the Hammers’ biggest weaknesses in the squad is the midfield, albeit the decision to trust Freddie Potts has gone down a treat, not only with the supporters, but also on the pitch.
There are still improvements to be made, however, and with Guido Rodriguez still making the bench at the London Stadium, signing Mainoo on loan appears a very safe bet for the Irons.
Everton
Everton‘s options in the middle of the park are Idrissa Gueye, James Garner, and Tim Iroegbunam. The former is now 36 and coming towards the end of his career, which means the Toffees need to prepare.
Iroegbunam has failed to convince Everton fans just yet, while Football Insider understands that Newcastle United are interested in Garner, whose contract expires at the end of the season.
David Moyes‘ side attempted to sign Mainoo during the previous transfer window, and with the player’s struggles continuing, returning for his signature might help push United to act.
Brighton
Fabian Hurzeler‘s preferred partnership in the centre of midfield is Carlos Baleba and Yasin Ayari, but beyond the duo, there are few replacements at Brighton this season.
In addition to that, Baleba has not experienced the best start to 2025-26, being subbed off early on several occasions and picking up multiple yellow cards, causing issues for his manager.
With the likelihood of the Cameroon international leaving the Amex Stadium next summer, learning to play without him would be a smart move by the Seagulls, and he could potentially be used in a swap deal with Man United.