The BBC reports that Manchester United intends to restart contract discussions with 20-year-old academy midfielder Kobe Maino, offering a new contract that would bring his salary in line with other senior players. Maino’s existing deal expires in 2027, but the club has an option to extend it for an additional year.

At present, Manchester United has yet to formally reopen talks with Maino’s representatives. Moreover, given that he had repeatedly sought a loan move before Rúben Amorim’s departure, whether he is willing to sign a new contract remains uncertain and may depend on the stance of the next permanent manager.
During Amorim’s tenure, Maino never started a Premier League match this season, a decision deeply disappointing to him and his supporters. He requested loan moves twice—last summer and again in early January. However, following Amorim’s dismissal, Maino has been reintegrated into United’s senior squad.
Caretaker coach Darren Fletcher first started Maino in the FA Cup third round against Brighton this month, marking his second start of the season. Then last weekend, in Manchester United’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City in the derby, Carrick included Maino in the starting lineup for his first match in charge, where both Maino and the team delivered convincing performances.
Therefore, it is unsurprising that Manchester United is now eager to resolve the long-standing issue of Maino’s new contract, which has been unresolved since 2024. From a value perspective, homegrown players hold significant importance in the Premier League, making Maino an obvious choice for United.
Carrick, who knew Maino from his previous stint managing United, regards him as a model young player for the club. "Working with him is a pleasure. Manchester United needs the development of young players, understanding what these youngsters mean to the fans—that’s the foundation of the club. Last week, everyone saw what Kobe (Maino) can bring; he always appears expressionless but truly enjoys football!"
"Our club needs young players to grow," Carrick added. "They are the backbone of the team, they understand the club’s significance, and so do the fans. This is something we must continually promote, and Kobe is a perfect example. I worked with him when he was 13 or 14 during coaching courses. To grow quickly at such a young age, achieve excellent results, and participate in important matches demonstrates his outstanding ability and capacity to handle pressure and challenges."

Maino signed his current contract in 2023. After scoring in the 2024 FA Cup final to help Manchester United defeat Manchester City and win the trophy, British media speculated that a new agreement would be reached. He then played as a key member of England’s squad in the 2024 European Championship final. However, rumors of his agent demanding a £200,000 weekly wage caused the renewal talks to break down.
After Amorim’s arrival, the way Maino was handled led his agent team to doubt whether Manchester United truly valued him. Now, Maino’s future plans likely depend on how the club values him, especially the attitude of the head coach.
Of course, income is crucial. With Casemiro, who earned a top weekly wage of £350,000, announced to leave after this season, the club now has significant wage budget space. Reports say Manchester United plans to offer Maino a new four-year contract with a base salary of £60,000 per week, a slight increase from his current £50,000 weekly pay. However, the new deal guarantees substantial bonuses based on appearances, goals, assists, and wins, reaching up to £130,000 per week in seasons without the Champions League, and up to £150,000 per week when competing in the Champions League!
Manchester United hopes that this incentive-based pay structure will keep players motivated and prevent complacency from high wages. The club expects Maino to agree to the renewal before next season starts; otherwise, they may consider selling him, as the Red Devils are prepared to heavily invest in new midfielders this summer. Rashford and Eriksen have already established a new wage structure, and it’s certain Maino won’t receive £200,000 per week.
Casemiro and Sancho have both confirmed they will not renew. If Rashford is sold successfully in the summer transfer window, the top salaries in the United dressing room will be more reasonable, with only captain Bruno Fernandes earning £300,000 per week.
However, another player’s situation remains unresolved: Mason Mount, the £60 million man. Although he performed well towards the end of Amorim’s tenure, his £250,000 weekly wage still does not match his performance level and squad role. Mount’s contract expires in 2028.

Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano stated: "Manchester United is keen to extend Maino’s contract with a new deal including different terms and salary. Maino is very satisfied with Carrick, and the feeling is mutual. If the good relationship between United, Maino, and Carrick continues, the club is ready to negotiate a new contract with Maino. United considers Maino’s contract a priority after confirming the parting with Casemiro. The contract talks between United and Maino will continue, and the club will stay in contact with his team. This is not something that can be resolved today or tomorrow; it requires time."