With a long history and a distinctive style of football, Man United always put a lot of importance in every decision they make. In the current context, compliance with increasingly strict financial regulations of European football means they have to carefully consider each young talent in the squad.
Young talents Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho are no exception. The pair could be sold for pure profit and therefore cannot be considered "untouchable".
Kobbie Mainoo has been in fine form this season, making 41 appearances for club and country. The 19-year-old midfielder is under contract at United until the summer of 2027, with the option of a further year, but there has been no sign of a new deal so far, raising major questions about the future of the England international.
Chelsea are among the clubs interested in Mainoo. The Daily Mail reports that the 2005-born talent is the Stamford Bridge team's top target. However, there have been no formal offers yet. It is entirely possible that Mainoo could be sold if a reasonable price is offered.
Alejandro Garnacho is another talent who could be on the market. Despite signing a new contract in April 2023, keeping him until the summer of 2028, his struggles to find a regular place under new boss Ruben Amorim are worth noting.
The Argentine has seen himself dropped from the starting line-up in recent games, and was even left out of the Manchester Derby. Amorim has insisted that his selection is due to his poor performances in games and training. His inability to maintain a consistent role in the 39-year-old's 3-4-3 formation has raised major questions about Garnacho's future at Old Trafford.
The 20-year-old striker is a direct, finishing player who can play an effective attacking role off the bench. However, his lack of defensive experience means he will struggle to play as a wing-back or in a more tactical role if Amorim requires him.
Manchester United are facing a complicated financial dilemma. After spending nearly £200m last summer, they are forced to sell players to balance the books and comply with financial regulations. Meanwhile, keeping young players like Mainoo and Garnacho requires higher wages, which could put further financial pressure on the club.
Selling Mainoo and Garnacho would result in a net profit for the Red Devils as they would not have to pay transfer fees for these two talents. Furthermore, reducing the financial burden of non-core players would make it easier for the board to recruit and pay other stars.
However, selling these two talents will not be easy for the Old Trafford team. Both Mainoo and Garnacho have great potential and can become important factors in the future of Man United if they develop in the right direction. Mainoo, with his ball control and creativity, can become a star in the middle, while Garnacho brings explosiveness and creativity in attack.
If the “Red Devils” decide to sell these gems, other big clubs like Chelsea, Arsenal or even some big teams in Europe will certainly be interested. However, it is important that Man United consider carefully so as not to regret losing the brightest talents at the present time.
