Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has urged the club not to sell Kobbie Mainoo for financial reasons.

The midfielder would go down as pure profit on the balance sheet and his departure could free up funds for Ruben Amorim’s rebuild. However, Scholes says that, while he would not have an issue with Alejandro Garnacho being sold, he would not accept Mainoo being let go:

“I think United could get better than Garnacho, although he’s a young player and there’s still probably better to come, I still think he’s a little bit scruffy in his technique at times, I think his decision-making sometimes is really poor.”

“I wouldn’t be afraid or I wouldn’t be worried if they sold Garnacho. But Mainoo, I would be offended by that.”

A Premier League rival do hold an interest in Mainoo

Several journalists, including Ben Jacobs, have confirmed that the 19-year-old is being pursued by Chelsea.

However, Mainoo’s priority is to stay at Old Trafford and sign a new contract. At the moment, no agreement has been found over an extension but discussions are expected to continue.

Would United consider selling Garnacho?

The Argentinian international is the subject of interest from Napoli, who are looking to replace Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. However, it is believed that the Red Devils would want at least £70m to let the player leave.

Reports suggest an offer of around £40m may have been tabled by the Italian club but that is not a figure that would tempt United into selling.

With the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability rules making signings difficult to secure, it remains to be seen if the club will decide to sacrifice somebody to provide Amorim with some funds for new players.

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