Kobbie Mainoo sends clear summer transfer message to Man United as he tells them who to sign

Kobbie Mainoo is already at the point in his Manchester United career where he is regarded as a nailed-on starter in the competitive area of centre midfield.

Forget that there is a Brazilian international with five Champions League winners medals in his trophy cabinet. Or a Danish international with almost 130 caps under his belt. Or even the club captain, a talismanic figure in another difficult campaign.

It's not Casemiro, Christian Eriksen or even Bruno Fernandes who is the first choice now in the heart of United's engine room. It's 18-year-old Mainoo.

READ MORE: United reveal who is in charge of summer transfer recruitment

READ MORE: I had Jude Bellingham signing in the bag for Man United - but two club icons did a rubbish job

When Erik ten Hag picks his starting line-up for the remaining eight (potentially nine) games this season, it will be Mainoo plus one other. Casemiro currently is the partner of choice, and the two have struck up a relationship that kind of works in the centre of the park, the Brazilian's defensive nous and experience complimented by Mainoo's quick feet, ability on the ball and sheer verve.

The rise to stardom has been supersonic for the boy from Stockport. Not only has he cemented himself in the United starting XI, he looks almost certain to be part of Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad despite only making his debut as a late substitute against Brazil last month.

United's dilemma is who they pair Mainoo with next season. Casemiro - while the obvious choice to partner the youngster now - is 32 and a fading force. His legs are not what they used to be, nor his is overall fitness record. He could be gone this summer if a suitable suitor is found.

Eriksen is likely to depart Old Trafford this