Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe is hoping to lure Man United’s Kobbie Mainoo to St James’ Park in the New Year, according to reports.

TalkSPORT claim that the Magpies boss is a keen “admirer” of the 20-year-old, and an approach could be made for the “wantaway” midfielder during the January transfer window if they receive any encouragement.

Mainoo has not started in the Premier League this season, and he reportedly requested to leave Old Trafford on loan prior to the deadline at the start of September.

If the England international continues to be used sparingly by head coach Ruben Amorim between now and January, there is a good chance that the player will press for a move again.

A transfer would hinge on Amorim’s future

Mainoo is currently out of favour but that could soon change if the Red Devils opt to dispense with their manager.

After losing the Manchester derby at the weekend, there are growing doubts about the future of Amorim. If the 40-year-old were to be sacked over the coming weeks, it would represent a clean slate for every player in United’s squad, including Mainoo.

It means that Newcastle’s chances of landing the midfielder will likely depend on Amorim staying in charge until the New Year.

Newcastle are not short of midfield options

The arrival of Jacob Ramsey from Aston Villa in the summer means that Howe has no less than six central midfield players at his disposal, along with captain Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, Sandro Tonali, Joe Willock and Lewis Miley.

Of course, if a player of Mainoo’s talent becomes available, the club will be tempted to make a move regardless. The Magpies are unlikely to be the only team interested, though. Both Tottenham and Chelsea have also been mentioned as potential suitors over the past 12 months.

In other news, Alan Shearer claims a goalkeeper will regret not signing for Newcastle