United Edge Closer to Mainoo and Maguire Extensions as Midfield Puzzle Remains Unsolved

The Old Trafford hierarchy can at least chalk up one success amid their managerial turmoil and transfer planning headaches: keeping Mainoo and Maguire tied down looks virtually assured.

According to David Ornstein, both players are on the cusp of signing improved deals, with negotiations at an advanced stage. Mainoo's extension would carry him through to summer 2031 on substantially enhanced wages, building on his current contract that runs until June 2027 with a 12-month extension option. For Maguire, who enters the final stretch of his existing agreement, a one-year renewal plus a further 12-month option is being finalised as we speak.

The pair have proven their worth under interim manager Michael Carrick, with Maguire particularly impressing of late whilst Mainoo has revived his United career following the managerial upheaval.

On the recruitment front, however, the picture remains decidedly murkier. United's summer shopping list centres on midfield reinforcements—at least two signings expected—but the club hasn't yet locked onto specific targets or profiles.

Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes has naturally cropped up in the gossip columns, yet Fabrizio Romano urges caution. That £100 million release clause which existed last summer has expired, meaning any deal would require full negotiations with a notoriously reluctant Newcastle. The Magpies guard their assets fiercely and won't entertain a fire sale.

Romano emphasises that whilst Guimaraes and others like Sandro Tonali receive appreciation from United, no final decision has been made on which type of midfielder to pursue. The choice will ultimately hinge on budget availability, Champions League qualification, and—crucially—who occupies the manager's office come summer. Different bosses will have different requirements, making it premature to lock in targets just yet.

One certainty, though: United will absolutely be active in the midfield market.