An update on the future of Kobbie Mainoo has emerged, with a surprise new favourite emerging in the race to sign Manchester United's in-demand midfielder.

Since the arrival of Ruben Amorim in November last year, Mainoo has played a bit-part role at Old Trafford.

After making such a positive start under Erik ten Hag, those inside the club deemed him the future of their midfield for years to come. However, the 20-year-old has yet to find a natural home in Amorim's high-intensity 3-4-2-1 system.

He struggled for game time towards the end of United's campaign in 2024/25, which included their Europa League final defeat to Spurs, and has yet to play a minute this season in games against Arsenal and Fulham.

As a result, the midfielder is being strongly linked with a summer transfer.

In fact, ten clubs have expressed an interest in Mainoo and a number have made contact since Monday, according to the Mail, who claim United are expected to decide on his future within the next 48 hours.

Mainoo has yet to feature in the Premier League for United this season. Image credit: Getty

Chelsea are long-term admirers and are currently the 10/3 favourites with Sky Bet to sign Mainoo before next month's deadline, but in a somewhat surprising turn of events, Everton are also priced at 10/3 to make an ambitious move.

Brighton are next on the market at 7/2, while Juventus (9/2), Inter Milan (5/1) and Bayern Munich (13/2) are in the mix alongside Premier League clubs Aston Villa (17/2), Tottenham (10/1) and Nottingham Forest (10/1).

As per the Mail, Spanish giants Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid are also keeping tabs on Mainoo.

Ruben Amorim explains why Kobbie Mainoo hasn't played this season

Aa mentioned above, Mainoo has been an unused substitute in both of United's opening two fixtures against Arsenal and Fulham.

Ruben Amorim used all five substitutes in the 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage but elected against introducing Mainoo - instead bringing on both Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven with just minutes remaining.

Mainoo looked dejected as he left Craven Cottage. Image credit: Getty

After the full-time whistle against Fulham, Amorim gave an insight into his decision as he explained how Mainoo is competing with captain Bruno Fernandes for a starting spot.

"He is fighting for the position now with Bruno," Amorim said. "And I change to two midfielders, I left Mason Mount there because we want to score a goal and when I change I felt the team needs to have one holding midfielder near Bruno.

"So he just needs to fight for the position with Bruno like it should be at Manchester United."

Thoughts on Mainoo's future? Let us know in the comments.