Manchester United are close to signing star midfielder Koby Mainu on a new deal, according to the latest updates from transfer experts. Fabrizio Romano.
The 20-year-old is expected to have a long-term future at Old Trafford with a contract until 2031.
Download the official CaughtOffSide app to get all the latest news and updates straight to your phone. above &
Romano said negotiations, which have been ongoing since January, are “close to completion” and the club is “optimistic” about reaching a deal.
Signing new contracts for academy stars has been a priority for the club since their resurgence under manager Michael Carrick.
Signing a new contract for Koby Mainu is a priority for Manchester United
Securing the future of Mainu is said to be a “priority” for the INEOS-led organization after a tumultuous period for academy graduates.
He is currently one of the club’s lowest earners at around £20,000 a week, but his new contract is expected to reflect his status as a key player in the first team.
The proposed five-year extension (with an option for another year) would be a big reward for a player who seemed headed for the exit just a few months ago.
Romano has said the club is determined to complete the paperwork before the end of the season to avoid interest from European rivals, with United sources confident the “phenomenal” youngster will sign in the coming weeks.
Koby Mainu’s resurgence under Michael Carrick is noteworthy
The deal marks a remarkable U-turn in Mainu’s Manchester United career.
During the first half of the 2025/26 season, Mainu found himself marginalized under former manager Ruben Amorim.
However, everything changed with the appointment of Michael Carrick as head coach in January 2026.
Carrick, who coached Mainu during his time in United’s academy, immediately reinstated him into the starting XI.
Reverting to a 4-2-3-1 system, Carrick built his midfield around Mainu’s composure and line-breaking ability.
Under Carrick’s guidance, United have won seven of their last 10 games, moving them into third place in the Premier League.
Mainu’s form has been so impressive that he was recalled to Thomas Tuchel’s England squad this month, his first international call-up in 18 months, and cemented his place as one of United’s most important players.
