Tottenham Hotspur could be preparing a surprise January swoop for Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, according to reports from the Daily Briefing.
The young English talent has endured a frustrating spell at Old Trafford, struggling for regular game time and facing growing uncertainty about his long-term future under the current regime.
Mainoo, once considered one of Manchester United’s most promising midfielders, has reportedly made it clear that he wanted to leave the club during the summer.
Despite his wishes, United blocked any potential move, including a loan that might have allowed him more minutes elsewhere.
Over two months into the new season, the 21-year-old has yet to start a Premier League game and has clocked fewer than 150 minutes across all competitions. For a player of his potential, such limited involvement has left him in a difficult position.
He did feature in United’s Carabao Cup clash earlier in the campaign, but it was a night to forget for Erik ten Hag’s side.
The Red Devils suffered a humiliating penalty shootout defeat to Grimsby Town, with Mainoo among several players who struggled to make an impact.
That setback has only deepened his frustrations, especially as he watches others in his position continue to get opportunities.
Internationally, Mainoo’s career has also stalled. Once seen as a bright prospect for England, he has not featured for his national side since September of last year.
Under Thomas Tuchel’s leadership, he has been overlooked for more than 12 months, despite his talent being widely recognized. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Mainoo knows that consistent playing time is essential if he wants to revive his international hopes.
At Manchester United, his pathway remains blocked. Current manager Ruben Amorim, who replaced Ten Hag earlier this season, views Mainoo as a direct competitor for Bruno Fernandes’ attacking midfield role.
Unfortunately, that has left him behind not just the captain but also other senior players like Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte in the pecking order. Despite the struggles of both midfielders, Amorim has shown little inclination to rotate Mainoo into the starting lineup.
However, a potential lifeline could arrive in January. According to journalist Marc Brus, Tottenham are among several clubs keeping a close eye on the situation.
Spurs are reportedly joined by Chelsea, Newcastle United, Leeds United, and Serie A champions Napoli in tracking the midfielder. Napoli, in particular, are said to have done significant groundwork in approaching Mainoo’s camp, though Premier League sides remain firmly interested in bringing him in on loan or permanently.
Brus reported that a source close to the situation confirmed the player’s ongoing frustration: “Kobbie Mainoo wanted to leave in the summer but United blocked it.
This will be one to watch again in January because he’s still not playing, and interested clubs are still there.” The situation could reach a breaking point if United continue to sideline him, as the January window presents another opportunity for both sides to find a resolution.
The same report suggests that Manchester United may be forced into the market for a new midfielder in January, with names like Carlos Baleba of Brighton and Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace high on their list. Should United manage to bring in new talent, Mainoo’s exit could become increasingly likely.
For Tottenham, this represents a golden opportunity. Manager Thomas Frank is believed to be keen on adding more depth and creativity to his midfield after what has been a mixed start to the campaign.
Spurs’ midfield has been hit hard by injuries, with James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski both missing key games. This has left Frank relying heavily on the likes of Pape Matar Sarr, Rodrigo Bentancur, and Lucas Bergvall a trio that, while talented, lacks the dynamism and forward drive Mainoo could bring.
Earlier in the season, Tottenham turned to Joao Palhinha on loan as a stopgap measure, but questions have emerged about his ability to progress the ball effectively.
While Palhinha’s defensive contributions are unquestionable, his limitations in possession have occasionally slowed Spurs’ transitions from midfield to attack. Mainoo, on the other hand, is known for his composure on the ball, intelligent movement, and crisp passing qualities that would fit seamlessly into Tottenham’s attacking system.
Despite being young, Mainoo has already shown glimpses of the maturity and technique needed to thrive in top-flight football. His versatility allows him to play both as a deep-lying playmaker and a box-to-box midfielder, giving Spurs tactical flexibility in how they approach games.
With Bentancur’s ongoing fitness concerns and the heavy fixture schedule ahead, signing Mainoo would provide valuable depth and fresh energy in the center of the park.
As it stands, Manchester United are reluctant to let him go, but continued inactivity could force their hand. The coming months will be crucial for Mainoo’s future, and Tottenham are well-placed to take advantage if United open the door.
A change of scenery might be exactly what he needs to reignite his career and fulfill the potential that once made him one of England’s most exciting young prospects.
If Spurs move decisively in January, they could land one of the Premier League’s most promising midfielders at a moment when he is hungry to prove himself.
For Mainoo, it could be the perfect opportunity to start fresh and for Tottenham, it could be another smart move in their steady climb toward long-term success.
