Man United receive Kobbie Mainoo boost as Erik ten Hag set to sanction January sale

Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is nearing his first-team return under Erik ten Hag as he climbs closer to full fitness.

The talented academy graduate excited during United’s pre-season tour but suffered a major setback when he injured his ankle against Real Madrid in the United States.

Last month, Mainoo returned to full training and he has since played three times for the youth teams, including two 90-minute games.

And over the course of the international break, Mainoo also appeared for England’s Under-19s team three times. He came off the bench midway through the second half against Romania and then captained the side against Japan, playing 76 minutes in the 3-2 win.

Finally, he managed to complete 90 minutes in a 7-1 win against Mexico and assisted twice in the game.

Wearing the armband and getting more important minutes under his belt will be important for Mainoo as he aims to break into Erik ten Hag’s team.

The Reds have been struggling in the engine room this season and injuries to both Casemiro and Christian Eriksen leave them thin in the area.

Meanwhile, Ten Hag and United are open to offloading French striker Anthony Martial in the January transfer market if a deal makes sense.

It has been previously reported that the club are keen to sign another no.9 to help 20-year-old Rasmus Hojlund, who has struggled to recreate his Champions League form in the Premier League.

Now, Fabrizio Romano has stated that a January move for Martial could be possible and that there are clubs interested in signing the forward.

It was added that a potential deal could either be influenced by or depend on numerous striker moves across Europe.

Martial has made 15 appearances for the Old Trafford club this season and scored once in the Carabao Cup win over Crystal Palace.