Everton make giant step closer to signing Kobbie Mainoo as transfer ambitious deal planned, it’s happening

Everton Eye Ambitious Loan Move for Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo

Liverpool, December 17, 2025

Everton are reportedly positioning themselves to make a bold January transfer swoop for Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, as the 20-year-old England international grows increasingly frustrated with his lack of playing time at Old Trafford.

Sources close to the deal indicate that the Toffees, under manager David Moyes, have joined a growing list of clubs interested in securing Mainoo on a six-month loan. The young star, hailed as “generational” by teammates and compared to Zinedine Zidane by Paul Scholes, has yet to start a Premier League match this season under Ruben Amorim. Mainoo’s limited minutes – just a handful of substitute appearances – have fueled speculation about his future, with reports suggesting he is eager for regular football ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Amorim has publicly left the door open for discussions, stating he would talk to Mainoo if the player expresses a desire to leave temporarily. “If Kobbie comes to me and talks to me, I will talk to him… I just want my players happy,” the United boss remarked recently. While Manchester United are adamant about rejecting any permanent bids, a loan exit has not been ruled out, particularly if it keeps the academy graduate developing in the Premier League.

For Everton, Mainoo represents a potential midfield coup. The club has been monitoring his situation since the summer, and with potential gaps in the engine room – including questions over Idrissa Gueye’s future – Moyes sees the composed ball-carrier as an ideal fit. Journalists like Ben Jacobs have confirmed Everton’s openness to a deal “under the right circumstances,” though United reportedly prefer an overseas move if a loan is sanctioned.

Competition is fierce, with Napoli leading the foreign interest and domestic rivals like West Ham, Fulham, and even bigger clubs circling. However, Everton’s promise of significant game time at the Hill Dickinson Stadium could sway the decision.

Mainoo’s brother made headlines this week by wearing a “Free Kobbie Mainoo” t-shirt at Old Trafford, underscoring the family’s discontent. As the January window approaches, this saga could become one of the transfer period’s biggest talking points

.If Everton pull it off, landing a player once valued at £79m on loan would be a statement of intent from the Merseyside outfit, injecting youthful dynamism into their squad.