Manchester United transfer news latest: Kobbie Mainoo update as 'final decision' made on 'request to leave' on deadline day

Manchester United have reportedly informed Kobbie Mainoo that they will not let him leave on transfer deadline day despite his requests for a loan move.

The Red Devils will be grateful for the international break given they have started the 2025-26 season poorly, with the club losing two of their first four games of the campaign while only winning once.

Manager Ruben Amorim has faced intense pressure for his refusal to adapt his system, but he has also faced criticism for his team selections.

Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has only started once this term, with the Englishman featuring in the XI that lost to Grimsby Town on penalties last week.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that while Mainoo had asked to leave Old Trafford on loan, United have informed the player that they have no intention of sanctioning a move before the deadline.

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Kobbie Mainoo future: Where will Ruben Amorim use midfielder?

Mainoo managed to claim a starting spot with England at Euro 2024, and there were high hopes that the Englishman would become a regular in United's midfield.

The 20-year-old is not the most athletically gifted, but he is able to manoeuvre his way out of pressure, and there is an argument that he is best suited to playing in deeper midfield roles.

Amorim has so far deployed Bruno Fernandes in a double pivot this campaign, and considering the captain is unlikely to be dropped, Mainoo's only pathway into the team could be as a defensive midfielder.

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Has Ruben Amorim wasted young players like Kobbie Mainoo?

The 20-year-old only started 19 times for the club in the Premier League last season, and he was not part of the XI that Amorim selected to face Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final in May.

Some supporters have been vocal in their criticism of Amorim's use of young players, especially after the likes of Alejandro Garnacho fell out with the United boss, with the Argentine subsequently completing a transfer to Chelsea.

Teenage defender Harry Amass is also set to go out on loan to Sheffield Wednesday, and his exit has raised concerns that the Red Devils are not providing as clear a pathway into the first team for their academy talents.

After signing Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha this summer, it would be surprising if any young forwards managed to make a breakthrough into the frontline.