United head coach Amorim suggested his priority in January is not to buy players but Mainoo is a target for Chelsea and the 19-year-old, who has been in talks with United about a new contract, could help raise funds as the sale of a homegrown player is particularly lucrative under PSR regulations.

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim says he wants to keep Kobbie Mainoo amid transfer links with Chelsea. The 19-year-old is considered a key player at Old Trafford after emerging last season under the tutelage of Erik ten Hag.

“My players are always my favourites, I really love my players and I want to keep them, especially the talented ones,” Amorim said. “I’m really happy with Kobbie – he is improving.

Ruben Amorim has made it clear that he wants Kobbie Mainoo to stay at Manchester United amid reports linking him with a move to Chelsea.

Man Utd opened talks over a new contract with Kobbie Mainoo last year but talks have stalled between both parties.

Ruben Amorim has said that Manchester United “need to improve recruitment” and maintained he wants Kobbie Mainoo to stay at the club. Amorim, 39, said that United need to target players who can deal with the demands that come with playing at Old Trafford while adding that the club’s intentions are to maintain their best academy talents.

Ruben Amorim has played down the prospect of Manchester United strengthening their squad in the January window but insisted that he wants to keep his best players following speculation that Kobbie Mainoo could leave Old Trafford.

Ruben Amorim has discussed the prospect of Manchester United selling Kobbie Mainoo and other homegrown players to raise funds.Manchester United are understood to be reluctantly prepared to consider

Ruben Amorim does not want to sell Kobbie Mainoo – but admitted it will be hard for Manchester United to keep all their homegrown players. United are keen to tie down the talented central midfielder to a new deal but the grim reality of their financial situation has presented challenges.

Ruben Amorim already knows the price that Manchester United will have to pay for one of the stars they so desire to strengthen their squad.