Manchester United's rising star faces hurdles in contract renewal, potentially impacting summer transfer plans! The two key figures have differing preferences on signings.

Since Carrick took over, 20-year-old Manchester United prospect Kobbie Mainor made his Premier League starting debut, receiving positive reviews for his calm possession and proactive defending. Statistics show Mainor made 77 high-pressing actions in 90 minutes, ranking fourth among United players this season, behind Sheshko (95 vs Sunderland) and Bruno Fernandes (87 vs Chelsea, 81 vs Man City).

If Mainor can maintain this level of intensity, his performance is expected to improve further. Previously, the youngster favored a Pogba-like style, resembling Martial, lacking the grit needed for tough battles. This was one reason former coach Ruben Amorim did not favor him, as the Portuguese manager expected midfielders to run actively and contribute both offensively and defensively.

This season, Mainor will definitely continue with Manchester United; he had planned to seek a loan for more playing time. Before the October match against Man City, his total Premier League minutes equaled only one derby game!

The UK’s The Sun revealed that after Carrick’s appointment, he held a private talk with Mainor to make him realize his value. Carrick told Mainor he would be a key part of the plan for the remaining matches this season. Subsequently, after Amorim’s departure and Mainor’s recovery, he earned Premier League starts partnering Casemiro in midfield.

Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano disclosed that Mainor never considered a permanent move away from Manchester United. Both he and his agent firmly believe Amorim wouldn’t last long, so he still has a future at Old Trafford.

However, obstacles remain in Mainor’s contract renewal talks. His current contract expires in summer 2027, with an automatic extension option until 2028. The Sun reported that Mainor agreed to a pay rise last year, but Amorim did not approve it.

There are conflicting reports about Mainor’s current salary, ranging from £20,000 to £80,000; his wage demands also vary between £150,000 and £200,000 per week. Whether Mainor and his representatives will lower their weekly wage expectations if given a fresh start remains a key point to watch. Romano stated: "His contract situation will remain a crucial topic for Manchester United in the coming months."

Following the Manchester derby victory, not only did United fans enjoy a pleasant weekend, but transfer rumors around the club also intensified. Coach Carrick is considered more likely to gain backing from owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe for January signings. There are even rumors that Portuguese defensive midfielder Ruben Neves has agreed terms with the Red Devils, with the transfer close to completion.

However, BBC reported that insiders maintain the likelihood of any signings this month remains low unless the opportunity fits long-term plans, like the previous case of Antoine Semenyo, who rejected United’s offer to join derby rivals Manchester City.

If Manchester United are to buy in January, it would depend on existing players moving out. Dutch striker Cyrielze is the top candidate, having missed the match against Man City due to injury. The 24-year-old wants to join Roma to secure a starting role and boost his chances of making the Netherlands World Cup squad.

Regarding his transfer prospects, Roma sporting director Frederic Massara said: "We brought in Malen and Watz, both strong players, one talented, the other established and ready to help immediately. The window still has 15 days, so let’s see how things develop. Manchester United clearly rejected Cyrielze’s deal weeks ago and have not reopened talks since."

If United sign a midfielder in winter, Ruben Neves remains a popular choice. The 28-year-old Portuguese international is interested, but only if United and Al-Nassr agree on a transfer fee. Neves could be sold for £20 million, but his £300,000 weekly wage is a major obstacle, and Al-Nassr, leading the Saudi league by 7 points, do not want to lose him mid-season, believing he still plays a key role under Simone Inzaghi.

For bigger-name midfield additions, United can only act in summer. It’s well known that Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, Crystal Palace’s Adam Walton, and Brighton’s Carlos Baleba are the three main targets. Sporting director Jason Wilcox supports Anderson, believing his talent and age meet Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s standards. Only Champions League football can attract Anderson.

Transfer chief Christopher Viveil favors Baleba. Although the Cameroonian’s form has dipped this season, his defensive skills far exceed what his age suggests, and Manchester United remains his most likely destination, unchanged since last summer’s window.