Man United set for Mainoo, Zirkzee talks as clubs circle
Manchester United are set to enter transfer discussions regarding midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and forward Joshua Zirkzee ahead of the January window, with both players reportedly seeking more regular playing time under manager Ruben Amorim. Sources indicate that while both remain integral to matchday squads, their limited starts this season have raised concerns about their development and international prospects.
Mainoo, 20, who has yet to start a Premier League match this campaign and has accumulated 113 minutes across five appearances, previously requested a loan move during the summer window—an appeal that was declined by the club. Meanwhile, Zirkzee, also without a league start and limited to 74 minutes from three substitute appearances, faces similar challenges in securing playing time. Both players appear eager to reassess their future opportunities if their roles do not increase.
The urgency is underscored by international ambitions. Mainoo, who started in England’s Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain, was not selected for recent international fixtures in September and October. With World Cup qualification and selection on the line, immediate playing opportunities are critical for maintaining his trajectory under Thomas Tuchel’s national setup. Zirkzee similarly hopes for regular club minutes to enhance his chances of inclusion in the Netherlands squad for the 2026 World Cup in North America.
Potential destinations for Mainoo reportedly include Napoli, who expressed interest in August, alongside other Premier League and Bundesliga sides. Zirkzee has been linked with a possible return to Serie A. However, Manchester United maintain control over any transfer decisions, emphasizing the players’ current roles as vital squad members despite limited starting appearances.
Adding complexity, Mainoo carries the responsibility of upholding Manchester United’s 87-year unbroken run of including at least one academy graduate in every matchday squad since 1937. Recent matches saw Mainoo as the sole academy product in the squad, highlighting the club’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent. Manager Amorim has publicly affirmed the importance of preserving this tradition as a cornerstone of the club’s identity.
This prospective January reassessment indicates United’s balancing act between fostering youth development and addressing the competitive demands of Amorim’s squad. For the players, negotiated moves could provide the consistent playing time necessary to advance their professional growth and international ambitions. For the club, these talks reflect an intent to strategically manage squad depth while safeguarding long-term talent pathways.