Manchester United starlet Kobbie Mainoo signs first professional deal

Kobbie Mainoo has signed his first professional deal with Manchester United.

Mainoo, 17, was a key part of the recent FA Youth Cup success and is regarded as one of the most exciting prospects in the club's academy set-up.

The Stockport-born central midfielder has been a part of the United youth set-up since the age of nine and will now be hoping to continue his upward trajectory to the brink of the senior side. Taking to social media, Mainoo confirmed his new deal as he celebrated a fantastic season in the United academy: "Happy to sign my first professional contract with @manchesterunited great way to end a successful season."

READ MORE ON MAINOO: United fans have another youngster to get excited about after Youth Cup win

Mainoo started every match as United went on to win the Youth Cup against Nottingham Forest last week, where he excelled with a combative performance at the heart of Travis Binnion's side.

The 17-year-old made 31 appearances in total for United at academy level this season, even appearing for the U23 side when he was just 16 and also playing in the UEFA Youth League.

Mainoo will continue to turn out for the U18 side next season but is expected to get more exposure at U23 level as United look to carefully nurture his progression.