Barcelona eye Mainoo on loan amid Gavi injury

Kobbie Mainoo, the 20-year-old Manchester United midfielder, is the subject of renewed transfer speculation after a season of limited playing time at Old Trafford. Reports say Barcelona have identified Mainoo as a potential short-term reinforcement as they cope with a lengthy injury to midfielder Gavi, and talks between the clubs could accelerate in the coming weeks.

Mainoo has featured only sparingly for United this season, making a handful of appearances and starting just once, in the League Cup defeat to League Two side Grimsby. He asked to go out on loan during the summer but remained at the club after that request was denied. United manager Ruben Amorim has held private discussions with the player and has told him he remains part of the club’s plans while urging him to fight for a place in the starting lineup.

Barcelona’s interest appears linked to Gavi’s knee surgery, which is expected to sideline the Spain international for up to five months. Club officials are said to be seeking midfield options that can provide immediate cover, and Mainoo is being considered as a candidate for a temporary move that could include an option to buy. The proposed timeline would likely see...