Topics: Kobbie Mainoo, Manchester United, Transfer News, Football, Premier League, Besiktas
A top European side has launched a surprise move for Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo.
With half of the 2025/26 season now behind us, the winter transfer window is officially open, and several top Premier League clubs expected to be busy.
In the early days of the window it is widely expected that Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo will complete a move to Manchester City, despite links to both Liverpool and United.
Meanwhile Brighton and Hove Albion and Crystal Palace were among the first clubs to sign new players, with the Seagulls securing the return of club legend Pascal Gross while Palace competed a club record signing of Brennan Johnson £35million deal.
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However, before they decide to purchase any new players, it appears United may first see one of their stars leave the club as a European giant has enquired about signing Mainoo this month.
Since Ruben Amorim's arrival at United in November 2024, Mainoo has struggled to find regular minutes.
So far in the 2025/26 season, the Englishman has made just 12 appearances, with all but one of them seeing him come off the bench for a short performance.
Because of this, rumours surrounding Mainoo's future at the club have circulated for months, with the latest report suggesting that Turkish giants Besiktas have now entered the race for the midfielder.
The report, coming from Turkish outlet Sabah, claims that Besiktas have enquired about Mainoo's availability ahead of a potential move this month.
It would be their preference to have the 20-year-old join on an 18-month loan deal.
Mainoo's current contract with United contract lasts until 2027, with United holding the option to add a further year, meaning triggering this extra year or offering him a renewal would likely be needed to make such a loan possible.
Besiktas' reported interest comes amid reports that Serie A winners Napoli are the favourites to secure Mainoo's signature if he is to leave United in the winter window.
However, it is believed that if a Premier League club is to enter the race for Mainoo in the coming weeks, they will become the most likely club to sign the star midfielder.
