Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has denied that the club is under pressure to sell promising young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and others to address financial challenges.
This assurance comes amid concerns over United’s financial health, with Ratcliffe acknowledging that without recent cost-cutting measures, the club could have faced insolvency by the end of 2025.
Mainoo, a 19-year-old academy graduate of Ghanaian heritage, has emerged as a bright prospect for Manchester United.
His performances have drawn attention, leading to speculation about potential transfers to bolster the club’s finances.
However, Ratcliffe emphasized that financial constraints will not dictate player sales.
“No no. We won’t be selling players because of the state we are in financially. The club had got bloated so we reduced that and will finish it with a lean and efficient organisation,” he told the BBC.
“That’s how we will address the costs. The player decisions will all be focused on how we are going to improve performance. That’s all.”
The 20-year-old, who has been with United since the age of six, has yet to agree on a new contract, with his current deal expiring in two years.
Mainoo has struggled with injuries this season and is currently battling a potential season-ending injury.
Negotiations over improved wages have stalled, leading Mainoo to consider options outside the Premier League. United reportedly value him at approximately £70 million and may consider selling him to bolster their finances.
