The club parted ways with several names during the summer transfer window, including Andre Onana, Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Rasmus Hojlund, Victor Lindelof, Marcus Rashford, and Jadon Sancho. ..Continue Reading
Now, two more members of Ruben Amorim’s squad are believed to be dissatisfied with their roles at Old Trafford and could leave in January.
Kobbie Mainoo was strongly linked with a departure in the summer, having reportedly expressed interest in a loan move during discussions with club officials.
United declined Mainoo’s request, with Amorim encouraging the England international to compete for his spot, even though he’s up against captain Bruno Fernandes in midfield.
Despite that, the 20-year-old has not managed to break into the starting XI, failing to start any Premier League matches and subsequently losing his place in the England squad.
He stayed on the bench for United’s first two league games before making five consecutive substitute appearances — the longest being a 45-minute run against Burnley.
According to new reports from Sasha Tavolieri of Sky Sports, Napoli — who showed interest in the summer — remain in contact with Mainoo’s camp and may submit a loan offer in January.
Joshua Zirkzee is facing similar struggles for minutes. Only Ayden Heaven and Tyler Fredericson have played less than Zirkzee, who has been an unused substitute in four of United’s seven league fixtures.
As per the Daily Mail, Zirkzee has been left “deeply frustrated” by his lack of involvement — especially after missing out on Ronald Koeman’s latest Netherlands squad.
He is now reportedly exploring a move away from United, having drawn interest from Napoli before they secured Hojlund on loan with a purchase clause.
Juventus and PSV Eindhoven were also monitoring him.
This news comes as Sir Jim Ratcliffe reiterates his commitment to giving Amorim three years to turn things around despite current challenges.
In another development, Turki Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, stated that the club is in “advanced stages of completing a deal to sell to a new investor”.
Alalshikh, known for bringing major sporting events to Saudi Arabia, posted on X Wednesday: “The best news I heard today is that Manchester United is now in an advanced stage of completing a deal to sell to a new investor – I hope he’s better than the previous owners.”
His remarks follow speculation that United could play a mid-season friendly in Saudi Arabia as part of Riyadh Season.
After competing with Sheikh Jassim of Qatar, INEOS chief Ratcliffe finalized a deal in February 2024 to acquire a 27.7% stake in United, valued at over £1bn.
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