Chelsea are reportedly in the lead to sign Kobbie Mainoo after negotiations for a new contract with Manchester United have stalled. According to The Mail, the young midfielder’s future at Old Trafford is now uncertain, despite his impressive performance in the recent 2-2 draw against Liverpool.

Manchester United is keen to secure Mainoo, whose current contract runs until the summer of 2027. However, talks regarding an extension have reportedly reached an impasse. Financial Fair Play (FFP) constraints are believed to prevent United from offering Mainoo terms comparable to their top earners, leading to a shift in how they view his status within the squad.

Sources suggest that Mainoo, 19, has expressed concerns about the club’s direction and their struggle to compete for Champions League football. This situation has opened the door for Chelsea, who are keen to bring him to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has been focused on acquiring young talent, and Mainoo fits the profile of a modern Chelsea signing. Despite not yet turning 20 until April, he has already become an important player for both club and country, making 52 appearances for United since his debut two years ago and contributing ten caps for England, playing a vital role in their run to the Euros final last summer.

If Mainoo joins Chelsea, he would face competition for a starting spot against established players such as Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, and Romeo Lavia, along with other young talents in the squad like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Cesare Casadei, and Carney Chukwuemeka. Meanwhile, Andrey Santos and Lesley Ugochukwu are currently out on loan.