Manchester United told the one transfer who will stall Kobbie Mainoo's progress

Manchester United have been warned that signing Frenkie de Jong would naturally stall the progression of Kobbie Mainoo at Old Trafford.

The teenager was earmarked as the next academy product to break into the United squad in the summer, but an injury during the pre-season trip to America halted his ascension. Mainoo returned from injury in November and has been an ever-present in the starting XI since.

Following the turn of the year, the 18-year-old has moved from strength to strength, with his performance at Wolverhampton Wanderers earning him specific praise. This week, Sir Jim Ratcliffe is set to complete his acquisition of United, with Premier League ratification already received.

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Attention is already turning towards the summer transfer window and new signings. Erik ten Hag is believed to be wanting a midfielder, and Barcelona's De Jong remains a target despite the saga that hindered the Dutch boss' first window at the club.

Former United defender Mikael Silvestre has told bettingexpert.com that De Jong would be a good addition, but at the expense of Mainoo. He explained: "If a player like Frenkie de Jong is available, he should be considered. But again you look at Kobbie and we talked about Scott [McTominay], and we have Casemiro here.

"Will De Jong be an upgrade? Of course. Ahead of Kobbie but if you want to continue developing Mainoo and give him the time, I don't think De Jong should come in.

"If you qualify for the Champions League, then signing De Jong makes sense. You have to consider him for sure.

"He's a top player but putting him in a midfield where the manager likes to play with two defensive midfielders, if you