Manchester United 'relaxed over Manchester City's interest in Kobbie Mainoo'

Manchester United are reportedly 'relaxed' when it comes to Kobbie Mainoo's future amid claims that Manchester City are keen to sign the highly-rated teenager.

The midfielder has been with Man United since the age of nine, progressing through the various youth sides at the club before making his first-team debut in January against Charlton Athletic in the EFL Cup.

Mainoo ended last season with three appearances to his name, including one outing in the Premier League against Leicester City in the middle of February.

The 18-year-old travelled with the Man United squad on their pre-season tour of the United States and had been impressing before picking up an ankle injury against Real Madrid at the end of July.

Mainoo is yet to feature for the first team this season, but he was back on the bench for the Manchester derby against Manchester City in the Premier League last weekend.

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According to FourFourTwo, Man City are pushing to sign the teenager, who has a contract at Old Trafford until June 2027, with the option of an additional 12 months.

However, Man United are allegedly calm when it comes to the youngster's future, as he has already turned down the chance to move to Man City on a number of occasions.

According to the Manchester Evening News, the Red Devils are not fearful despite fresh reports emerging that the Citizens are pushing to bring him to the Etihad Stadium.

Speaking ahead of the Manchester derby, Man United head coach Erik ten Hag told reporters: "Still a way to go, but he's ready for a part of the game.

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"That's good news because he's a midfielder player and we can use his capabilities, his physicality, his taking of the ball and he's brave. All of his abilities and skills, he can contribute to the team."

A number of League One clubs are said to have attempted to sign Mainoo on loan over the summer, but Ten Hag made it clear that he would be in his plans for the campaign.

The midfielder is in the Man United squad for Saturday's Premier League clash with Fulham, travelling down to London with the rest of his teammates on Friday.

Casemiro's absence could open the door for Mainoo to feature in the coming weeks, with the Brazilian potentially missing for the remainder of the year due to a hamstring issue.

However, Mason Mount, Christian Eriksen, Sofyan Amrabat, Scott McTominay, Hannibal Mejbri and Bruno Fernandes are also options for the Red Devils in that area of the field.