Florentino Pérez is always keeping an eye on Real Madrid's future. Now, a young talent from Manchester United has caught his attention: Kobbie Mainoo, a 20-year-old English midfielder who's looking for playing time and opportunities to grow.
United doesn't close the door, but sets conditions
Manchester United is open to loaning Mainoo, but not at any price. They only accept a loan without a purchase option, and the team that receives him must cover his entire salary.
The English club wants to protect its investment. They prefer Mainoo to play at Real Madrid rather than see him strengthen a direct rival in the Premier League. This way, they keep control over the player's future and avoid losing him permanently.
Mainoo wants to play
The young midfielder hasn't played any minutes in the first Premier League matches. That's why he has communicated that he wants to leave on loan this summer. According to Fabrizio Romano, Mainoo's intention is clear: he's not looking for a permanent transfer, he just wants to play and develop.
United sees him as a player with great potential, but they also understand that he needs opportunities to grow. This loan would be the perfect chance for Mainoo to show his talent and gain experience without closing any doors for the future.
Real Madrid watches calmly
Meanwhile, Real Madrid is in no hurry. Florentino Pérez is satisfied with the current squad and it doesn't seem like he's going to make any last-minute moves. Even so, the club is already looking to the future and considering possible additions for 2026, when Mainoo could become a real target.
With a contract until 2027 and a market value close to €50 million, the English midfielder is a bet for the future. However, there are also other young players at the white club who are drawing attention, so his signing isn't guaranteed yet.
A strategic opportunity
For Real Madrid, Mainoo's loan could be a masterstroke: a young and promising player who arrives without compromising the team's current structure. Mainoo would gain minutes at an elite club and United could follow his development without losing him permanently.
If it happens, it would be a strategy designed for the long term. Florentino Pérez would manage to secure a talent before other European clubs try to sign him. In addition, it would allow the young Englishman to keep growing without pressure and with real opportunities to shine on the field.