Man City manager Pep Guardiola is a keen admirer of Man United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and would like to bring him to the Etihad, according to reports.

The 20-year-old is currently unsettled, having failed to start a Premier League match so far this season, including the Manchester derby, and TEAMtalk claim that the Cityzens could make a ‘shock’ approach to take advantage of the situation.

Guardiola is believed to rate Mainoo very highly, although there are also other Premier League clubs keeping tabs on the player.

Chelsea and Newcastle would be interested in signing the England international as well if he becomes available for transfer.

Will Mainoo be sold by United?

It should be noted that the Red Devils refused to let the player leave on loan during the summer transfer window.

Mainoo was reportedly keen to get more game time and requested to depart on a temporary basis, but the move was blocked by the club’s management.

For that reason, you can’t see them sanctioning a permanent exit, although you do also have to factor in the midfielder’s contract situation. He still has two years remaining on his current deal, but if he refuses to sign an extension, a decision will have to be made on his future over the next 6 to 12 months.

How much would Man City have to pay?

While TEAMtalk claim that an asking price has not been set for Mainoo, other sources reported last month that United would seriously consider offers of around £45m.

Of course, you would also need to take into account their reluctance to sell to a close rival, so there is a good chance that the Cityzens would have to pay substantially more than that figure to secure his signature in January or at the end of the season.

Read more about the Man City First Team Squad for 2025/26 here