Just in: Newcastle contact Man Utd to sign £60m star, he’s open to leaving

Newcastle United have stepped forward with genuine interest in securing the services of Kobbie Mainoo, making contact with Manchester United to understand what it would take to complete a deal.

The young midfielder, highly rated within English football, is now at the centre of transfer speculation after finding himself on the fringes of first-team action at Old Trafford.

Despite being considered one of the brightest talents to emerge from United’s academy in recent years, Mainoo has yet to be handed meaningful minutes in the Premier League this season, a decision that has sparked frustration for both the player and his supporters.

The situation has left Mainoo contemplating his future, and the door could be opening for Newcastle to strike. Journalist Jason Soutar reported that the Magpies have asked United about the conditions of a possible transfer, with the player open to leaving in search of regular football.

This development highlights a growing sense that the midfielder may be better served by moving to a club prepared to offer him consistent playing time, especially with the World Cup on the horizon.

For a young England international eager to cement his place in the national team, being restricted to the bench behind senior midfield options is far from ideal.

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has so far leaned heavily on experienced midfielders such as Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, Mason Mount, and Manuel Ugarte.

While this offers solidity in the short term, it has left Mainoo with little opportunity to showcase his ability. The Portuguese coach appears reluctant to rotate heavily in midfield, which makes a loan move or permanent transfer more appealing to the 19-year-old.

Reports suggest that United could demand close to £60 million for his services, a hefty fee but not an unrealistic figure in today’s market for a player with Mainoo’s potential and years ahead of him.

For Newcastle, the move makes sense in several ways. Their summer transfer business has been challenging, with deals for top targets often stalling.

Despite adding Jacob Ramsey, Anthony Elanga, Malick Thiaw, and Aaron Ramsdale, there is a feeling among supporters that the squad still lacks a midfielder who can dictate play and bring energy in the centre of the park.

Ramsey may eventually fill that role, but Eddie Howe is known to be a coach who values competition in every area of the pitch. Bringing in a player like Mainoo would not only provide depth but also add a long-term solution in midfield.

From Mainoo’s perspective, a switch to Newcastle could be exactly what he needs at this stage of his career.

At St James’ Park, he would be joining a team on the rise, competing at the top end of the Premier League and in Europe, yet still offering a platform for young players to thrive.

Howe has shown he trusts emerging talents, giving them opportunities to prove themselves alongside seasoned professionals.

For Mainoo, it could be the perfect balance between development and ambition, ensuring he continues to grow while playing at the highest level.

The player’s ambition to feature for England in next summer’s World Cup adds even more urgency to the decision.

Sitting on the sidelines at Old Trafford would only harm his chances, while regular appearances in a Newcastle side fighting on multiple fronts could make him an obvious selection for Gareth Southgate.

His versatility, composure, and vision make him a midfielder capable of fitting into various systems, and with time, he could easily develop into a mainstay for both club and country.

It would not be an easy choice for Mainoo to walk away from Manchester United, the club where he developed and rose through the academy ranks. Yet, the demands of top-level football often require tough decisions.

Staying loyal to United may appeal emotionally, but it may not serve his career best in the long run if opportunities continue to be limited. A move to Newcastle could offer him the pathway he craves: consistent football, development under a progressive coach, and the chance to showcase his quality on a bigger stage.

While negotiations remain in the early stages, the growing interest in Mainoo is a sign of his value in the market.

If Newcastle press ahead, they will likely face competition, but their proactive move to contact United demonstrates real intent. The coming days will reveal whether the Magpies are prepared to meet United’s demands, but what is clear is that Mainoo’s career is at a crossroads.

The decision he makes now could define his journey for years to come, and Newcastle appear ready to give him the stage he deserves.