Man Utd contract boost for Mainoo, Leeds test next
Opinion hints Carrick may drop Bryan Mbeumo and turn to a young wide option likened to Garnacho as United face Leeds after a 24-day break.
De Ligt’s back issue has kept him out since 30 November, with no clear return date. Unlike Martinez and Maguire, he missed the training camp, managing variable symptoms and workload.
Manchester United and Tottenham are monitoring Beşiktaş striker Oh Hyeon-gyu after his prolific start in Turkey. No contact yet, but the 24-year-old’s form has drawn Premier League attention.
United want Bournemouth’s Alex Scott despite Tottenham interest. The 22-year-old has 32 Premier League apps, 3 goals and 1 assist, excels in possession and ball recoveries, and could fit Carrick’s midfield plans.
United and Arsenal plan formal approaches for Leicester prodigy Jeremy Monga, 16. He debuted at 15, became the youngest Championship scorer, and is yet to sign pro terms amid wide interest.
Gazzetta link Rafael Leao with Manchester United, suggesting a summer move could cost around €40m after criticism and stalled Milan talks. No negotiations yet, but United’s need for wingers is noted.
Bruno Fernandes wants United to be competitive for trophies, not promises of titles. Martinez could return vs Leeds with Maguire banned, while Casemiro backs Jesse Lingard’s Corinthians move.
Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi, out of contract this summer, will decide his future this week. Tottenham, Liverpool and Manchester United lead the race, with Juve likely snubbed and Chelsea also interested.
Newcastle will consider Tonali bids only early in the window and near £100m. Man United, Arsenal and Man City are linked as United assess midfield with Casemiro set to depart.
United host Leeds on Monday. Martinez could return with Maguire suspended, De Ligt out. Dalot available. Carrick’s side are third and strong at Old Trafford. Leeds lack goals and have key absentees.
Carrick says talks for a new deal for Kobbie Mainoo are in a good place. The 20-year-old is expected to earn about £120,000 a week to 2027. Mainoo has been ever-present under Carrick and earned an England recall.
Ex-Man United defender Marcos Rojo was sent off for punching Lucas Martinez Quarta as Racing Club lost 2-0 to River Plate, having earlier misplayed a clearance for Facundo Colidio’s opener.
Ex-Man United defender Patrice Evra dismisses Barcelona’s comeback hopes against Atletico, calling them no longer the kings and backing Diego Simeone’s side after Barça’s 0-2 first-leg loss.
