Real Madrid are reportedly monitoring the situation of Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo ahead of the January transfer window, according to reports from Defensa Central via Fichajes.

Madrid’s transfer conditions

Despite a busy summer in which Los Blancos signed Dean Huijsen, Alvaro Carreras, Franco Mastantuono and Trent Alexander-Arnold, they did not reinforce their midfield. That could change in the new year if two conditions are met:

1. A major injury to one of Xabi Alonso’s current midfield options.
2. The departure of Dani Ceballos, who came close to leaving for Marseille in the summer and could still move on if an acceptable offer arrives in January.

Should either scenario unfold, Real could accelerate plans to bring Mainoo to the Bernabéu.

Mainoo’s uncertain United future

The 20-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough under Erik ten Hag in 2023-24 but has since struggled for regular minutes under Ruben Amorim, who prefers a different midfield profile.

His reduced role led to summer transfer speculation, and the England international is understood to be pressing for a move if his playing time does not improve.

Why Kobbie Mainoo appeals to Alonso

Mainoo’s ball-carrying, distribution, and defensive energy make him a natural fit for Alonso’s system.

According to Fbref, he ranks in the 94th percentile of midfielders in Europe for tackles attempted per 90, 88th percentile for successful take-ons, and 96th percentile for carries into the box.

He also excels in pressing high up the pitch, ranking in the 99th percentile for tackles in the attacking third.

Madrid weighing timing

With Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga returning to training after injuries, Madrid are in no rush, but any setbacks could open the door for a January approach.

For United, the coming months may prove decisive: either Mainoo wins Amorim’s trust, or the club faces renewed pressure to cash in on one of their brightest academy graduates.