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Fenerbahce has set its sights on Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo as the Istanbul club looks to strengthen its midfield ahead of the January transfer window. The English youngster, widely seen as one of United’s most promising academy products, has now emerged as a serious option in the club’s transfer planning.
Fenerbahce recently turned its attention to the Premier League after assessing several options for a mid-season reinforcement. According to Italian outlet Tuttomercato, the club has placed Mainoo on their radar, seeing him as a player who could bring energy and versatility into the centre of the pitch.
The 20-year-old England international, who attracted significant attention during Euro 2024, has struggled to secure regular minutes this season. His reduced playing time has prompted several European clubs to keep a close eye on his situation.
Italy’s Napoli and Lazio have both expressed firm interest in signing Mainoo. Napoli have been “keeping tabs” on the midfielder as part of a possible January move, and local reports indicate that the club considers him among the leading names on their list. The Serie A champions have been exploring midfield upgrades, particularly after their recent run of form.
Napoli have previously looked to Old Trafford for solutions, bringing in Scott McTominay in 2024 and later securing Rasmus Hojlund on loan. The Dane has already scored four times in 10 appearances this term, encouraging the club to explore further business with United.
Competition is not limited to Italy. Newcastle United and West Ham United have also shown interest in the midfielder. Newcastle, in particular, is reported to prefer a permanent transfer and has been exploring a bid based on this approach. However, Manchester United is described as unwilling to lose Mainoo outright at this stage, signalling that it may only consider temporary or conditional offers.
Despite the growing attention from Türkiye, Italy and England, Manchester United is not prepared to part ways with Mainoo permanently, which may reshape the type of proposals clubs submit in the upcoming window.
This situation is expected to influence negotiations and could turn the January market into a highly competitive period for the young midfielder.
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