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News
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EXCLUSIVE: Brighton open talks over ambitious Kobbie Mainoo transfer
Steve Kay
- Updated: 26 Aug 2025 19:29 BST
- 5 min read
Exclusive
Brighton have spoken with representatives of Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo over a potential transfer, FootballTransfers understands.
The Red Devils are fully aware of these discussions, with sources confirming that Mainoo is open to leaving Old Trafford after falling out of Ruben Amorim’s first-team plans.
The 20-year-old has struggled to reclaim his place in the side after an injury-hit 2024/25 campaign, prompting his camp to explore options that could provide regular game time and a platform to reignite his hugely promising career.
Current ETV
Kobbie Mainoo
DM, M (C)
Man Utd
Kobbie Mainoo
DM, M (C)
Man Utd
ETV Range
€55M - €67.2M
We are told that Brighton are keen to capitalise on the situation and view Mainoo as a strong fit for their style of play. Intriguingly, sources have suggested this deal could help facilitate Carlos Baleba heading the other way in the future.
The Cameroon international is a player United have been actively pursuing during this window, only to be frustrated by Brighton's not-for-sale stance. If Man Utd show a willingness to offer a reasonable deal for Mainoo, it would greatly bolster their chances of securing Baleba in 2026.
Mainoo intrigued by Brighton move
Brighton's interest in an attack-minded midfielder like Mainoo should not come as a surprise, given that Julio Enciso and Facundo Buonanotte are expected to leave the club before the deadline, while Matt O'Riley has fielded persistent interest from Italy.
While some may view a move to the Amex as a step down for one of England’s most promising young midfielders, those close to the player believe it could be the perfect step at this stage of his nascent career.
Brighton have developed a reputation for nurturing young talent and providing a pathway to elite-level football, something that appeals strongly to Mainoo as he seeks consistent first-team minutes.
Another factor influencing Mainoo’s decision is his ambition to be part of England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. With game time at a premium under Amorim, the midfielder knows he needs a strong season to attract the attention of England manager Thomas Tuchel.
A switch to Brighton could provide the platform to showcase his quality in the Premier League and put him back in contention for international selection.
Chelsea also hold a long-standing interest in Mainoo. While no formal bid has been lodged, sources indicate that the Stamford Bridge club continue to monitor developments closely and may yet enter the race if the right circumstances present themselves.
The Blues need to make sales to comply with their UEFA settlement, which stipulates that Chelsea must finish the window with a positive balance to be able to register new players for the Champions League. Moreover, the current priority is securing the signing of Alejandro Garnacho.
For Man Utd, a potential sale of Mainoo would represent a significant Profitability and Sustainability Rules boost due to the player having come through the academy.
Any transfer fee would be recorded as pure profit on the club’s books, providing further motivation to consider offers during this window or in January, as was already the case last winter.
Mainoo’s future looks set to be one of the key storylines in the closing days of the transfer window.
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