Kobbie Mainoo took to social media to share a cryptic post after Manchester United’s thrilling draw with Bournemouth. The England international, who was brought on as a second-half substitute amidst cheers from the Old Trafford faithful, has been the subject of transfer rumours ahead of the January window. His playing time under Ruben Amorim has been limited, with the midfielder yet to make a starting appearance in the Premier League this season.

This has fuelled speculation about his future at the club, with Napoli reportedly showing interest. The rumour mill went into overdrive when Mainoo’s brother sported a ‘FREE KOBBIE MAINOO’ shirt during the Bournemouth match and shared it on social media. Shortly after the game, Mainoo himself posted an uncaptioned photo on Instagram featuring him and fellow substitute Joshua Zirkzee.

Zirkzee, too, has been linked with a potential exit from United in the upcoming transfer window. Despite a brief run of three consecutive Premier League starts, the 24-year-old striker has found himself relegated to the bench once again.

He made late appearances in the match against Bournemouth and last week’s victory over Wolves.

Conflicting reports continue to swirl around Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford. Over the weekend, claims emerged that Roma are ‘ramping up efforts’ to secure the striker’s signature, having allegedly received a ‘green light’ for the move.

Yet this came just days after suggestions that Zirkzee was resolute in his desire to stay at United and fight for his position in the squad.

Amidst speculation surrounding Mainoo’s future, Amorim has been forthright about his position.

“The team comes first and if Kobbie comes to me and talks to me, I will talk to him,” he said.

“I’m not going to say what I’m going to say to Kobbie but I will be really pleased if Kobbie comes to talk to me about that. I just want my players happy and I understand that every individual has their goals.

“The frustration doesn’t help anybody. But again, the focus is on this game and we will see if that happens. I had some conversations with him, especially last year, and with other players but about that subject, no. I didn’t speak with him.”