Mainoo to replace Liverpool flop as shock January transfer heats up

Robin Bairner

Updated: 15 Nov 2025 10:54 GMT
4 min read

Kobbie Mainoo, Man Utd, 2025/26 — © IMAGO

Kobbie Mainoo’s departure from Manchester United during the January transfer window has taken a step closer to reality, with the England international lined up for a loan move.

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Clubs from across the Premier League and Europe are clamouring to sign Mainoo, who has been deprived of game time under Ruben Amorim.

While there is some doubt as to whether United will allow him to depart – at least, without signing a replacement – there is one particular track that appears to be heating up nicely.

Current ETV

Kobbie Mainoo

M, DM (C)

Man Utd

Kobbie Mainoo

M, DM (C)

Man Utd

ETV Range

€56.4M - €69M

Mainoo is increasingly being linked with a move to Ajax, where the signing of the 20-year-old is considered to be an “absolute must”.

Following the departure of Jordan Henderson last summer, the Amsterdam club have found a void in their midfield that they have been unable to suitably fill. James McConnell has arrived on loan from Liverpool, but the youngster has not proven himself to be a midfielder who can help the Eredivisie giants reach the heights expected of them.

On the other hand, Mainoo already has a wealth of experience, having started for England in the final of Euro 2024 before his star fell sharply at Old Trafford with Amorim’s arrival.

© IMAGO - Kobbie Mainoo: Only eight appearances this season for Man Utd

Mainoo’s future a problem Man Utd must solve

Man Utd find themselves in the middle of a dilemma over Mainoo. The management of the club, including owners INEOS, see a bright future for the youngster, who has been earmarked as a truly exceptional talent.

Mainoo, meanwhile, shares this vision of a long-term future at Old Trafford, but under Amorim it is currently difficult to see. He has made only eight appearances this season, including just a single start.

But it’s widely recognised that he needs to be playing. United are reluctant to allow him to leave, particularly to a direct rival like Chelsea, who have shown interest. A six-month loan deal looks the likeliest outcome, though this is also contingent on Amorim finding cover in his midfield.

Ajax is a club that ticks a number of boxes for Mainoo, but the Eredivisie giants are also studying a possible move for Victor Froholdt from Porto.

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