Baleba’s £80m move threatens Kobbie Mainoo’s United future

Kobbie Mainoo’s summer has been a nightmare, becoming one of football’s most high‑profile spare parts while he watched England’s march to within a whisker of a World Cup final from the dug‑out. The impending arrival of Carlos Baleba, a deal that could cost Utd up to £80 million, may seal Mainoo’s uncertain future at Old Trafford.

Mainoo’s summer to forget saw him labelled a high‑profile spare part, a status amplified by his absence on the pitch during England’s World Cup run. He remained on the bench throughout the tournament, never receiving a minute of play.

As autumn approaches, the Manchester United midfielder faces the prospect of an even harsher reality. England’s upcoming fixtures may further marginalise him within the squad.

Michael Carrick, appointed United manager, rescued Mainoo from a slump at the start of 2026 and helped restore his reputation. Carrick has now instructed the club’s hierarchy to secure Carlos Baleba from Brighton. The move signals a new tactical direction under Carrick’s leadership for Man United.

Baleba deal and midfield reshuffle

Negotiations suggest the Baleba transfer could cost Utd up to £80 million, with talks between the clubs ongoing. Should the signing materialise next week, the financial outlay could jeopardise Mainoo’s long‑term prospects at the club.

Although Carrick continues to value Mainoo, his method of appreciation appears indirect. After spending almost £90 million on Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans this summer, Carrick now seeks a third midfielder in Baleba.

United’s interest in Baleba has been well documented, and the club expects all three new midfield arrivals to compete for first‑choice spots. Tielemans is praised for vision, long‑range passing and goal threat, while Baleba offers box‑to‑box energy and pace, and Santos provides a pass‑first, ball‑winning profile.

Past neglect and uncertain future

Thomas Tuchel’s handling of Mainoo at the World Cup appeared puzzling, with the German coach favouring Elliot Anderson and Declan Rice, leaving Mainoo on the bench even in the quarter‑final against Norway. By the third‑place play‑off versus France, Mainoo had vanished from the squad, officially listed as injured. Observers noted his limited training impact during the tournament.

Reports suggest Mainoo’s confidence waned, with speculation that his head had dropped after minimal training impressions. Despite a reputation for humility, former United boss Ruben Amorim’s treatment added to his frustrations.

Mainoo remains modest, often parking his car among staff vehicles rather than the Ferraris of teammates, and prefers book clubs to nightclubs. If the new campaign begins with him on the outside looking in, his resolve and patience will be severely tested.