Ruben Amorim addresses Kobbie Mainoo exit rumors in Manchester United presser ahead of Arsenal FA Cup clash

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has opened up on Kobbie Mainoo's future amid rumors of an exit. The Englishman has been linked with the likes of Chelsea for a potential move.

Mainoo, 19, came through the Red Devils' ranks and established himself as a key player under former manager Erik ten Hag. He has made 52 senior appearances, scoring five goals and providing one assist. However, his performances have arguably dipped in recent weeks, especially since Ruben Amorim's appointment as manager.

Amidst concerns over his form, some reports have suggested that Manchester United will be open to listening to offers for Mainoo. Chelsea are reportedly among the clubs who are monitoring the 19-year-old for a potential transfer. Amorim was asked about the speculation about the youngster's future ahead of their FA Cup third-round clash against Arsenal on Sunday. He answered (via Utd District):

"My players are all my favourites. I want to keep the players, especially the talented ones. It is a hard moment at the club but I am really happy Kobbie is improving."

Mainoo has made 17 appearances across competitions for Manchester United this season, failing to provide any goal contribution.

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Fabrizio Romano provides update on Kobbie Mainoo's situation at Manchester United

Kobbie Mainoo's contract with the Red Devils expires in 2027 and the club have the option to extend it by a year. As per TEAMtalk, Manchester United are in talks with the midfielder to improve his current deal. However, reports suggest that he wasn't happy with their first offer and hence, Chelsea are monitoring the situation.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, however, has said that there is no immediate concern for United about a potential Mainoo exit. He said:

“What I can tell you, many of your messages are about this Chelsea story, I think it’s absolutely normal for all top clubs in the world – Chelsea for sure – but also many others to appreciate a player like Kobbie Mainoo.

“How can you not love a talent like Kobbie Mainoo? A guy who was in the academy one year ago, then a fantastic rise with Man United, Euros – don’t forget what this boy did for the English national team as a kid. So, it’s absolutely normal to fall in love with Kobbie Mainoo, especially if you’re an English club. But, that’s it at the moment. My headline is not ‘Chelsea like Kobbie Mainoo’ because that’s absolutely obvious and normal.

“But, the point here for Manchester United is that there are no negotiations with any other club, no bid on the table, the situation is completely quiet. The player is under contract till 2027 plus an option until 2028. So it’s not a desperate situation for Manchester United.”

Other academy products like Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford have also been linked with a potential move away from Old Trafford. The Red Devils need to raise money to comply with the Premier League's PSR rules.