Manchester United have now opened talks to sign an “unbelievable” midfielder, who Ruben Amorim has been pushing INEOS to sign.
Man Utd eyeing new midfielder amid Mainoo controversy
Kobbie Mainoo’s brother, Jordan Mainoo-Hames, has sparked controversy after wearing a ‘Free Kobbie Mainoo’ to Man United’s 4-4 draw against AFC Bournemouth, with talkSPORT’s Adrian Durham slamming the former Love Island contestant.
Durham said: “Can you imagine his brother doing that when Fergie was in charge? Fergie would have had Kobbie Mainoo out of the club by the next morning.
“It was an utterly insane thing for him to do, it’s selfish for him to do that, the brother. It’s totally about him getting attention, it doesn’t help Kobbie Mainoo, it doesn’t help Manchester United.”
The midfielder has already been struggling for game time this season, with his only start coming in the EFL Cup defeat against Grimsby Town, and it remains to be seen what effect his brother’s stunt has on his future.
With Mainoo’s future in doubt heading into the January transfer window, amid interest from Everton, Chelsea and Bayern Munich, the Red Devils have now stepped up their pursuit of a new midfielder.
That is according to a report from TEAMtalk, which reveals Man United have opened talks over a deal for Al-Hilal’s Ruben Neves, with the Saudi Pro League side now ready to sell the midfielder in the January transfer window.
Al-Hilal have been unable to agree terms on a new contract with the Portuguese maestro, and given that his current deal is set to expire at the end of the season, a return to Europe is on the cards next month.
Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United have also held talks over a deal for the central midfielder, so there could be competition for his signature, but Amorim will be hoping United can win the race, having personally been pushing to sign him.
“Unbelievable” Neves impressing in Saudi Arabia
It is no wonder Al-Hilal were keen to extend the 63-time Portugal international’s contract, given that he has impressed from an attacking point of view this season, recording five goals and one assist in five matches in all competitions.
Journalist Raj Chohan also waxed lyrical about the former Wolverhampton Wanderers man during his previous stint in the Premier League, suggesting he has the ability to play for a top club.
It is unclear what sort of fee Al-Hilal are looking to receive for the 28-year-old, but with his contract due to expire in the summer, they aren’t exactly in a strong negotiating position.
As such, Man United should try their luck in the January transfer window, particularly if Mainoo leaves, amid widespread interest in the 19-year-old.
