Manchester City: Guardiola eyeing shock move for Man Utd teenager

The Citizens are keen to add another young midfielder to their ranks.

In the midst of Manchester United’s struggles on and off the pitch, Manchester City are reportedly eyeing an audacious transfer attempt for Kobbie Mainoo.

Mainoo, who was named United’s young player of the year for the 2022/23 season, is considered one of the most promising prospects to emerge from the club’s academy in recent years. However, his senior team breakthrough has been delayed by an ankle injury sustained in a pre-season match against Real Madrid.

The midfielder had impressed during United’s pre-season, drawing comparisons to Casemiro, but his injury setback hindered his progress. Recently, Mainoo returned to action, making the bench against City and Fulham. According to FourFourTwo, City are impressed by the 18-year-old’s rapid development, hoping to prize him away before he becomes a regular member of United’s senior squad.

City, under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, has earned a reputation for nurturing young talent, making their interest appealing to any budding player. However, it remains uncertain how much the Citizens are willing to offer for Mainoo, whose current United deal runs until 2027.

The potential transfer would also revive memories of Jadon Sancho, who is the last player to move from City to United after a successful stint at Borussia Dortmund.

While United faces uncertainties with their ownership situation, City seems keen to seize the opportunity to bring Mainoo across the city.