Tottenham Hotspur ‘considering’ shock move to sign Man United star | OneFootball

Tottenham Plot Ambitious Move for Manchester United Starlet Kobbie Mainoo

Spurs circle as contract talks stall

Tottenham Hotspur have quietly made an enquiry about Kobbie Mainoo, with TBR Football reporting that the North London club are keeping close tabs on the Manchester United youngster’s unresolved contract situation. The 20-year-old midfielder is regarded as one of United’s brightest prospects, yet contract negotiations have dragged on for over a year.

His current deal runs until 2027, with United retaining an option to extend for another year, but no breakthrough has been found. That has encouraged Spurs to step up their interest, sensing a rare opportunity to pounce should the deadlock persist.

Photo IMAGO

Lack of game time a key factor

Mainoo’s 2023/24 season was disjointed by injuries, limiting him to 24 starts. For a player of his talent, that represents a significant hurdle, especially with the World Cup looming next summer. Regular minutes are now a priority. At Manchester United, that path is cluttered with competition. Bruno Fernandes remains pivotal. Casemiro, though fading, still commands a role. Along with Manuel Ugarte and further midfield reinforcements are being sought.

Photo: IMAGO

TBR Football’s Graeme Bailey explained, “Mainoo is keen to stay at Man United, but the longer he goes without agreeing to sign a new contract, the more likely it becomes that he could be sold.” That clarity could open the door for Spurs and Chelsea, who also hold a long-standing admiration for the player.

Strategic midfield move by Tottenham

Thomas Frank’s midfield setup would likely appeal to Mainoo, particularly with space to grow under a system designed to prioritise technical quality and dynamism. Spurs are building something ambitious. The interest in Mainoo reflects a change in tone from previous transfer windows, a drive to acquire top-tier English talent with high ceilings.

Photo: IMAGO

Should United decide to cash in, Tottenham’s groundwork might put them in a strong position to act quickly and decisively.

Chelsea’s shadow still lingers

Chelsea’s interest is still noted, and any slip from Spurs could see the West Londoners revive their own pursuit. But timing and player development pathways might make Tottenham’s project more appealing, especially if guaranteed minutes are offered as part of the package.

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There was a time not long ago when Spurs wouldn’t dare enquire about a rising Manchester United talent. But this feels different. Kobbie Mainoo is a player with poise, awareness and an eye for progression, exactly the kind of midfielder Tottenham fans have craved for years.

Imagine him playing in a double pivot under Frank, feeding runners like Maddison or Sarr, and dictating tempo in the middle third. This move wouldn’t just signal intent, it would mark evolution. Spurs are no longer bystanders in the transfer market. They are proactive, confident and, crucially, attractive.

Mainoo wants regular football. United might not be able to offer it, particularly with the names ahead of him and their ongoing search for new blood in midfield. Tottenham, on the other hand, could hand him the reins and build around his composure and maturity.

Yes, Chelsea lurk. But Spurs have momentum, a style of play that suits him, and a manager known for trusting youth. The enquiry might seem speculative to outsiders, but to fans, it feels like the first step in something potentially significant.