Real Madrid have identified the centre-back position to be their priority for the next summer transfer window and have been linked with several high-profile names including Dayot Upamecano, Ibrahima Konate and William Saliba.

A secondary, yet fundamental area they see in need of reinforcements, is the midfield, particularly the defensive midfield with Rodri being one of the club’s targets on that front in recent transfer market.

Now, Manchester United’s young midfield sensation Kobbie Mainoo has also caught the eyes of the Real Madrid administration and is not ruled out as an option.

Stance clear

Mainoo’s contract with Manchester United runs out in 2027 and he has caught the eye of several of Europe’s elite. A departure, thus, appears to be on the horizon.

From Real Madrid’s perspective, however, they do not see the youngster’s signing in the upcoming January transfer window with favourable eyes, as relayed by Defensa Central.

Kobbie Mainoo is on Real Madrid’s radar. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

Los Blancos will continue to monitor the player’s progress and keep a close eye on his availability, especially given that he fits their transfer requirements.

However, it has been their policy to stick with the existing squad through seasons and not make recruitments in January and they do not wish to change that for Mainoo.

They will, thus, continue to operate as they always have and retain faith in the existing midfield core. The next summer market is when they could go on the offensive for the signing.

So far this season, Mainoo has made four appearances for Manchester United in the Premier League and has yet to start a game – a big reason why he is seeking an exit.

The 20-year-old is seen as an appealing target for many as he can play in a multitude of roles in the middle of the park. However, Real Madrid will not move for Mainoo in the winter.