MANCHESTER UNITED have an option to extend Kobbie Mainoo's contract by 12 months.

Man Utd hold an option to extend Kobbie Mainoo's contract

But United have a contractual option to keep Mainoo until 2028 — giving them control over his short-term future.

The clause is understood to be one-sided, so Mainoo does not have  to agree for it to be activated.

United still hope Mainoo will sign a longer contract as Amorim sees him as key to his plans.

He earns about £20,000-a-week and his representatives want to raise that.

The 12-month option could prove crucial in protecting the England international's transfer value, which the club have set at £70million.

Chelsea are monitoring Mainoo's situation with a view to making a summer bid.

But the Stockport-born academy graduate is also thought to favour a move overseas should he seek a transfer.

United declined to comment when contacted by SunSport.

The club have used 12-month options before as a way of giving them flexibility over their squad.

Mainoo has been out of action for a month with a muscle injury.

Amorim has not given a recent update on his return date but it will not be before this month's international break.