Manchester United duo closing in on new contracts

Manchester United’s summer planning is beginning to take real shape, and much of that clarity is coming from within the squad itself.

After a period of instability and underwhelming results, Michael Carrick’s impact since taking over has been clear, not just on the pitch, but in terms of player confidence and status.

Two figures who had seen their futures questioned earlier this season are suddenly back at the centre of United’s plans.

Their turnaround is reflected not only in their club roles, but in recent national team recognition as well.

And now, the club looks set to reward that progress with new contracts.

According to The Athletic, United are close to finalising fresh deals with both Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire, in what would represent a significant show of faith from the hierarchy.

Mainoo briefly drifted out of favour under former head coach Ruben Amorim, but has become a fixture in Carrick’s team, starting every game since the interim manager arrived.

United’s willingness to tie him down to a long‑term contract underlines how much his stock has risen, particularly after he forced his way back into the England setup with a recent recall following his strong run of performances.

Currently contracted until June 2027, the proposed new deal would extend Mainoo’s stay at Old Trafford through 2031 and come with a substantial pay boost, reflecting his increased importance to the side.

It’s a stark contrast to earlier this season, when Kobbie Mainoo was reportedly open to a loan move in search of regular minutes, a request the club resisted as they saw him as part of their future.

Maguire’s situation has also taken an unexpected turn.

The centre‑back looked set to leave Old Trafford when his contract expires this summer, but talks over a new deal are now well underway.

The plan on the table would see Maguire sign on for another year, with an option for a further 12 months, keeping him at the club beyond the current campaign.

Like Mainoo, Maguire has rediscovered form under Carrick and has started every match since the coaching change, his experience proving invaluable to a United back line that has steadied itself.

His England recall, his first in over a year, has only emphasised how much his stock has improved, as Tuchel’s side prepare friendlies ahead of the World Cup.

With negotiations described as advanced, it appears the club hierarchy are eager to lock down the players driving their recent upturn in form before the summer window truly begins.