Manchester United has successfully acquired both Chido Obi-Martin and Ayden Heaven from Arsenal over the past year, presenting a potential opportunity for the Gunners to seek retribution this summer.
With Thomas Partey and Jorginho poised to become free agents at the conclusion of the season, Mikel Arteta’s team is expected to pursue a new midfielder, and they may find a promising candidate available from one of their most intense rivals.
As reported by Sky Sports Germany, Manchester United is preparing for several players to depart Old Trafford at the end of the season in order to generate funds for new acquisitions. Among those anticipated to leave are Casemiro, Marcus Rashford, Victor Lindelof, and Kobbie Mainoo.
Once considered indispensable at the Theatre of Dreams, the playmaker now appears likely to part ways with his childhood club. Mainoo has two years remaining on his contract with the Red Devils, and reports indicate that negotiations for an extension have reached an impasse.
Consequently, Arsenal has a prime opportunity to act and potentially reunite Mainoo with his international teammate Declan Rice.
The two players formed a midfield partnership during Euro 2016, with Gareth Southgate ultimately selecting them for the Round of 16. This collaboration continued throughout the tournament, culminating in the Three Lions’ defeat to Spain in the final.
Rice and Mainoo offered a balanced approach to England’s attacking strategy, with both players capable of contributing offensively while also providing defensive support when necessary.
Chelsea also values Mainoo highly, but the allure of joining a title-contending team with a clear path to regular playing time could be a significant factor if Arsenal decides to pursue the 19-year-old to help advance his career at the Emirates Stadium.
Mainoo seems to lack a position within Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation, as he does not possess the creativity required for a No. 10 role and does not fit the profile needed to alternate with either Manuel Ugarte or Bruno Fernandes in the deeper midfield positions. Consequently, he may be offered at a reduced price.
A three-man midfield setup appears to suit the young player well, and Arteta has likely observed the effective partnership between Rice and Mainoo during the brief opportunities presented by international tournaments. The potential availability of Mainoo could incentivize Arsenal to pursue the acquisition of another promising talent from the Premier League.
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