Kobbie Mainoo’s future at Manchester United is now clouded with uncertainty as rumors suggest Chelsea may pursue him.

The 19-year-old midfielder is reportedly dissatisfied with the initial terms of a new contract offered by United, despite being under contract until 2027 with an option for an additional year. While Mainoo has been heavily linked to Chelsea, sources at United insist they do not want to lose him.

Mainoo, along with Alejandro Garnacho, Rasmus Hojlund, and Andre Onana, was considered untouchable during the summer transfer window, but all four have faced challenges this season. Mainoo spent eight weeks sidelined due to a hamstring injury in October and November, limiting him to just five starts under head coach Ruben Amorim, who has overseen 12 matches.

He returned to the starting lineup in a 2-2 draw against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, but United’s difficulties in adhering to the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability regulations may compel them to consider selling academy players. Such sales represent a straightforward profit, influencing their decision to sell Scott McTominay to Napoli in August. Other academy products, including Mason Greenwood, Willy Kambwala, Hannibal Mejbri, Alvaro Fernandez, and Will Fish, have also been transferred for fees.

Former United sporting director Dan Ashworth noted in September that the era of the one-club player is fading. He remarked, “The number of players that will be one-club players for a long time is probably changing due to the rules and regulations.”

Mainoo signed his current contract in February 2023 at just 17 years old. Since then, he has established himself as a key player for United, scoring the winning goal in the FA Cup final against Manchester City and playing a crucial role in England’s journey to the European Championship final, where he started.

Represented by the Stellar agency, Mainoo also renewed his sponsorship deal with Nike in August.