Carrick: Mainoo's New Deal Nears Completion

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has confirmed that the club is close to finalizing a new deal with midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. The 20-year-old's current contract, which was signed in 2023, is set to expire in 2027, but the club is keen to offer him a new agreement that reflects his growth and importance to the team. The proposed five-year deal would be a significant upgrade, with a substantial pay rise. Mainoo has become a regular starter under Carrick, featuring in every Premier League match since the manager took over. His fortunes have turned around dramatically since the start of the year, when he was not part of the plans under former head coach Ruben Amorim. Mainoo's new deal would be a major coup for the club, and Carrick is optimistic about the negotiations. "We're getting closer, we're positive with that. We're calm with it, but we're positive and only time will tell how it will go. But we're in a good place with him," Carrick said. The midfielder has also received international recognition, being included in Thomas Tuchel's latest England squad and featuring in both games against Uruguay and Japan. With Carrick's own future at the club still uncertain, he has made a strong case for himself to become the permanent manager, having led the team to seven wins in 10 games and lifting them to third in the Premier League.