Fabrizio Romano reported that West Ham have called Manchester United to understand the situation of Kobbie Mainoo, with the club wanting a six-month loan to give him an opportunity to play and potentially go to the World Cup. Romano also reported that as of now, Manchester United are not open to letting Mainoo leave in the winter window on the instruction of manager Ruben Amorim, who is insisting the player be retained. Separately, TEAMtalk insider Fraser Fletcher was informed that Manchester United will not allow Mainoo to leave on loan, even if he officially requests an exit for a second time. The information given to Fletcher stated that Mainoo is viewed as essential backup and that Amorim does not want to be without quality options if injuries occur. AFCON absences are also cited as a factor in the decision.

English midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, 20, has been linked with Premier League side West Ham United. He is reportedly unhappy with his limited role at Manchester United and is expected to seek a move in January. However, Fabrizio Romano has stated that United's manager Ruben Amorim is insistent on rejecting all offers for the midfielder. Napoli are also reported to be interested in Mainoo and are expected to renew their interest after an unsuccessful attempt to sign him in the summer. David Ornstein has stated that West Ham United are unlikely to sign either Mainoo or his teammate Joshua Zirkzee. The England international, who has 10 caps, is under contract until June 2027 and has a market value estimated by Transfermarkt to be €45.00m; he has made seven Premier League appearances so far this season.