Manchester United are expected to take a firm position on the futures of Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes as the club prepares for a key summer window.
Both players have been the subject of growing transfer talk, with United facing interest from abroad. Mainoo’s rapid rise has made him one of the most watched young midfielders in Europe, while Fernandes remains the side’s captain and the player most closely linked to United’s attacking output.
Despite the noise, United are not actively looking to cash in on either. The current plan is to keep Mainoo as part of the long-term core at Old Trafford, with the club viewing him as a central figure in the rebuild. United’s stance is that the academy graduate is not for sale, even if sizeable offers arrive.
Fernandes’ situation has also been discussed behind the scenes, but the message from the club is similar. United still see him as a key leader in the dressing room and an important presence on the pitch. While big-money approaches can test any resolve, United’s intention is to retain their captain rather than open the door to a departure.
The context, however, is that United’s finances and squad planning will be under scrutiny. Like many clubs, they may need to balance incoming and outgoing business to strengthen multiple areas. But selling Mainoo or Fernandes is not being positioned as a preferred route for funding the next phase of recruitment.
Mainoo, in particular, is regarded as a player United want to build around for years to come. His ability to handle pressure at a young age has stood out, and the club believe his value to the team goes beyond what could be gained in a single transfer fee. Any negotiations, if they happen at all, would only take place under extreme circumstances.
As for Fernandes, United are aware that experienced, productive midfielders at the top level always attract attention. Yet there is a belief at Old Trafford that moving on from the captain would create a bigger hole than it would solve, especially with United still searching for consistency and identity.
With the summer approaching, United’s message is clear: they want Mainoo and Fernandes in the squad next season, and they are not planning to entertain offers unless something dramatically changes.
