Kobbie Mainoo in line to follow Bukayo Saka by signing Nando's sponsorship deal
Kobbie Mainoo has been the name on everyone’s lips during the international break, and Confidential understands that Manchester United’s teen star could mark the latest stage of his meteoric rise by signing a sponsorship deal with Nando’s.
Even the ultra professional Mainoo tucks into the signature peri-peri chicken dish as a treat when he fancies a change from his favourite meal of rice and peas, and discussions are said to have taken place with the restaurant chain over an endorsement deal.
Nando’s won’t be the only sponsors wanting to get on board with Mainoo after the 18-year-old midfielder made his senior England debut off the bench against Brazil on Saturday and is pushing for a first start against Belgium on Tuesday night.
Mainoo’s breakthrough season at United will inevitably lead to a lucrative new contract in the summer, although formal discussions have yet to take place between the club and his representatives.
The clauses built into Mainoo’s current deal mean that his progress this season has been rewarded, and United are relaxed about securing the future of a homegrown player who is under contract until 2027.
Tyrell targets next season
Tyrell Malacia's difficult recovery from a double knee surgery means the United defender is unlikely to make his comeback before the end of the season.
However, Confidential understands that reports in Germany over the weekend claiming Malacia’s problems to be as much mental as physical are somewhat wide of the mark.
While Malacia has had to overcome the psychological challenges typically involved in any long-term rehab, the injury itself and several setbacks in his recovery are the reason he has not played at all this season.
The 24-year-old left-back, who became Erik ten Hag’s
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