Former Aston Villa striker Dean Saunders has revealed that he is privy to discussions that are ongoing between Kobbie Mainoo’s representatives and Manchester United as Tottenham circle over the England international.
It took many Spurs fans by surprise when reports emerged earlier this week that Tottenham are considering a move for Kobbie Mainoo as the Lilywhites attempt to bolster their midfield.
According to a subsequent update from Dean Jones, Mainoo is one of seven midfielders Spurs are looking at, as talks over a new contract between the midfielder and Man United have hit a stalemate.
The 20-year-old also wants a regular game time ahead of next year’s World Cup, which may pave the way for an exit from Old Trafford.
Kobbie Mainoo and Man United standoff explained amid Tottenham links
Dean Sanders has now revealed that the midfielder’s entourage are not making unrealistic salary demands to the Man United hierarchy.
He explained that the Red Devils face a difficult decision regarding the youngster and opined that Mainoo would improve Thomas Frank’s midfield if he made the move to North London.
When asked about the Mainoo situation, the pundit told talkSPORT: “I know his agent, and he’s not asking for too much money in comparison to what the players are earning at Man United. But it’s a dilemma for the football club, what do you do with Mainoo? How much money do you pay him?
“Because he’s actually not done much in the game but gets in the England squad, and now he’s in Man United’s team, and there are players earning three times more than him, four times more than him.
“So to protect their asset, how much money have you got to give him to get him to sign a new contract? Or, if he’s not going to sign it, they’re going to have to sell him, otherwise, he walks out on a free. But I think he’d get in Spurs’ team.”
Spurs pushing ahead with a move for an experienced midfielder
While Spurs seem to have their eye on the Mainoo situation, it does not appear as if he is their top midfield target at the moment.
Several outlets have claimed over the last few days that Thomas Frank sees Joao Palhinha as a perfect fit for his midfield.
According to various sources, Tottenham are now stepping up their efforts to land Palhinha, who Bayern Munich are ready to sell for around €25m (£21.6m).
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