Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick confirmed that the club is nearing a new contract agreement with Kobbie Mainoo.
The new deal is expected to run until 2031. Consequently, the 20-year-old midfielder will receive a significant salary increase.
Carrick remains calm about the ongoing negotiations. “It’s getting closer, so we’re positive with that,” the United boss stated.
He added that the club is currently in a good place regarding the deal. Mainoo’s future seemed uncertain earlier this season under former manager Ruben Amorim.
The midfielder had not started a Premier League match before Amorim’s dismissal in January. However, the situation changed quickly after a 1-1 draw against Leeds.
Amorim criticised the club hierarchy and left within 24 hours. Carrick was holidaying in Barbados when he received the call to take charge. “There wasn’t really any sign of it at that stage,” Carrick recalled.
Carrick confirms new Kobbie Mainoo deal is getting closer
United currently sit third in the Premier League table after seven wins under Carrick. They need just thirteen more points to guarantee Champions League qualification.
Carrick remains realistic about the club’s progress after finishing 15th last season. “As a club, we want to be challenging right at the top,” he admitted.
Moreover, he knows that European football is vital for the club’s prestige. “The Champions League just brings so many positive things,” Carrick explained.
United face Leeds United on Monday evening as they look to strengthen their position. Carrick refuses to accept anything less than a strong finish to the campaign.
He believes the club must keep building to reach their long-term goals. “We need to try and get used to being in there more often,” he concluded.
