Former Manchester United goalkeeper Ben Foster has warned the club that English midfielder of Ghanaian descent Kobbie Mainoo could consider leaving if his wages are not significantly improved.
Mainoo, who currently earns £20,000 per week, is reportedly in talks with United over a new contract.
However, Foster believes the 19-year-old could become frustrated when comparing his salary to teammates earning significantly more despite performing at a lower level.
Speaking on his Fozcast podcast, Foster emphasized the importance of securing Mainoo’s future with a competitive wage.
“It must really annoy Kobbie Mainoo because he must be looking around at some of the players that are on crazy wages that are nowhere near as good as him,” he said.
“They don’t put in any of the performances that he puts in, and they’re earning three, four, five or even six times the amount he is. I thought that after the Euros, he was going to go on to be a world-beater this season.
“I still think there’s a world beater there as well and it’s probably mental fatigue or a bit of burnout. I think we will see an absolute player.”
Reports indicate that Mainoo’s representatives are seeking a £150,000-a-week deal, but with new owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe focused on cutting costs, negotiations may be tough.
Foster warned that clubs like Chelsea would be willing to meet those demands, which could put United at risk of losing one of their brightest prospects.
“He’s not in any position right now because of circumstances to go making demands. He’s still got three years left on his contract with an option.
“If he was at Chelsea, he’d be on £150,000 per week so that’s his argument. But then the club come at it from their perspective and go, ‘Well, you’ve still got three years left on your contract.'”
