Manchester United ‘make’ Kobbie Mainoo transfer decision as only two stars ‘untouchable’ under Rúben Amorim

Manchester United have seemingly shifted their mindset around Kobbie Mainoo as only two players are now deemed “untouchable” within Rúben Amorim’s squad.

Manchester United have entered the 2025 January transfer window in crisis, grappling with the fallout from four straight defeats across the Premier League and Carabao Cup. However, a 2-2 draw with Liverpool has shed new light on the potential of the current squad.

Rúben Amorim faces a monumental task to strengthen a squad desperately in need of reinforcements. Yet, the financial strain caused by Erik ten Hag’s extravagant spending during his two-and-a-bit seasons in charge has left the club in a precarious state.

United are short in several key positions, requiring a left-back, at least one centre-back, a striker, and multiple midfielders. However, their limited budget makes securing these signings a significant challenge.

As a result, the focus has shifted to trimming the squad, with plans to offload multiple players in January and the summer to free up funds and lay the groundwork for rebuilding the team.

United made transfer decision surrounding Mainoo

According to the Daily Mail, United are contemplating the possible sale of Kobbie Mainoo amid transfer interest from Chelsea.

Although the club are by no means pushing Mainoo out of the door, it’s claimed that the 19-year-old is worried about the current downward direction of the club and his limited chances of playing Champions League football.

Previously, United saw Mainoo as an entirely untouchable player that they would not consider any offer for, but the above report details how they have made a decision to change their stance.

Due to the financial positives of selling Mainoo (his transfer fee would be deemed as pure profit and set United well into a comfortable profit and sustainability position), they reportedly no longer consider him an untouchable.

For the same reasons, the club would be willing to let both Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho depart, too.

United only have two untouchable players

With Amorim’s new system shifting the focus of who United’s best players are, according to the Mail report, only Amad Diallo and Leny Yoro are seen as completely off limits for a transfer.

Amad Diallo signed for United four years ago, but his chances prior to Amorim’s arrival were limited, with periods in the Academy and loan spells keeping him away from the first team.

However, under the new head coach, he has become entirely essential, having contributed to eight goals in the last six weeks, including vital finishes against Manchester City and Liverpool.

Read More: What David Ornstein said about Kobbie Mainoo’s Manchester United future amid Chelsea transfer interest

Amad Diallo is set to sign a new long-term deal at the club in the coming weeks following his recent contributions.

Leny Yoro is another who is poised to become a stalwart under Amorim. After signing for United for around £52 million in the summer, the 19-year-old centre-back suffered a four-month injury that kept him out until December but has been praised for good defensive displays ever since.

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