£70m Man Utd star one step away from exit; may join Premier League rivals

A “sensational” Manchester United player is now one step away from an exit, amid a contract stand-off, and there is a feeling he could join a rival Premier League club, according to a new report.

Major rebuild needed at Old Trafford

Ruben Amorim has pulled no punches when talking about the squad he’s inherited, making a big statement after his side’s 3-1 defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion back in January.

“We are the worst team maybe in the history of Manchester United. I know you [media] want headlines but I am saying that because we have to acknowledge that and to change that. Here you go: your headlines.”

Since then, there have been very few signs of improvement, with the Red Devils languishing in 14th place and exiting the FA Cup at the hands of Fulham, so it is clear that a major revamp will be needed in the summer.

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The Red Devils are lining up a bid for a midfielder, who could be an ideal option for Ruben Amorim in the middle of the park.

There have been widespread recent reports suggesting Casemiro’s time at Old Trafford could be coming to an end, while there is also doubt lingering over Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund, who haven’t exactly been prolific in front of goal this season.

However, Man United may also have to brace for another departure that is likely to sting a lot more, with a report from Spain revealing Kobbie Mainoo is now one step away from an Old Trafford exit.

There is an ongoing contract stand-off with Mainoo, who is keen on a big new contract as a reward for his solid performances, but the lack of progress could push him towards seeking a move elsewhere.

Chelsea could be waiting in the wings to sign the midfielder, having identified him as an ideal target, and former scout Mick Brown has revealed United could be willing to accept a £70m bid to raise funds for other transfers.

“Sensational” Mainoo would be a big loss

It is a major flaw of the PSR system that Premier League clubs are often forced to cash-in on their academy graduates for ‘pure profit’ to comply with financial rules, and if United do decide to accept a £70m bid, the 19-year-old could be a real loss.

Sky Sports’ Joe Thomlinson has lauded the central midfielder as “sensational” this season, having received regular game time whenever fit, although he’s had a stop-start campaign due to injury issues, which means he hasn’t really managed to kick on.

Mainoo’s performance in the FA Cup final last season showcased just how good he can be on his day, however, receiving the Man of the Match award after playing a huge role in United triumphing over rivals Manchester City.

Given the financial issues United are facing, it could be tempting to cash-in for a £70m fee, but it would be painful to see Mainoo in a Chelsea shirt.