Man Utd and Real Madrid hold talks over €95m Enzo Fernandez alternative

Real Madrid are plotting a blockbuster summer transfer raid on Manchester United, with the Bernabeu side ready to engage in talks over Kobbie Mainoo in a deal that would disrupt Chelsea‘s summer transfer plans.

Mainoo has already made his desire to leave Old Trafford clear, with the teenage midfielder involved in January speculation regarding a move to Chelsea.

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The Guardian previously indicated that the England international star, 19, wants to move abroad, opening up the possibility of a deal with Real Madrid.

Los Blancos seem to have taken note. Although Mainoo wasn’t initially considered to be a priority for them, Fichajes reports, they are ready to engage in talks over a transfer for the player in the summer.

Man Utd’s position is vulnerable. Not only has Mainoo not committed to a long-term contract with Ruben Amorim’s side, the Red Devils’ vulnerable position with regards to Financial Fair Play (FFP) means that they will have to raise significant funds in the transfer market before they can buy any much-needed replacements in the summer.

The rising star, meanwhile, fits into Real Madrid’s philosophy of buying young players and developing them to reach superstar status.

Kobbie Mainoo: Man Utd’s asking price to be driven down

A deal for Mainoo could have a knock-on effect for Chelsea, who have also been heavily linked with the player. Like Real Madrid, they have sought to sign young talent and have just beaten Man Utd to 17-year-old Sporting CP winger Geovany Quenda.

Mainoo had been touted as a possible replacement for Enzo Fernandez, who had in turn been linked with a big-money move to Real Madrid.

It is claimed the Blues simply want to cut their losses with Enzo, with Mainoo a natural replacement. It seems that the future of both players is intertwined.

While there is no indication of the price that Real Madrid are willing to pay for Mainoo, the Red Devils were seeking around €95 million for him in January.

Mainoo’s Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) only sits at €55m, while Man Utd’s financial issues mean that they lack leverage and will likely be forced significantly down from their initial position.