Manchester United succumbed to a 12(2)-(2)11 defeat via penalties against Grimsby Town on Wednesday, August 27, in the EFL Cup Second Round. Ruben Amorim's team have now suffered a shock exit from the tournament.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid are interested in Kobbie Mainoo. Elsewhere, the Red Devils are planning to move for a Turkish defender.

On that note, let's look at the major Manchester United transfer stories from August 28, 2025.

Real Madrid want Kobbie Mainoo

Real Madrid are considering a move for Kobbie Mainoo this summer, according to The Daily Mail. The English midfielder's future at Manchester United has been subject to scrutiny since the start of the year.

Mainoo exploded onto the scenes under former manager Erik ten Hag and was tipped to become a mainstay for the Red Devils. His development, however, has slowed down under Ruben Amorim.

The 20-year-old was an unused substitute in the first two Premier League games of the season. He did return to the starting XI against Grimsby Town on Wednesday, and played the entire game.

However, Mainoo failed to have an impact in a team that struggled to hold their own against the League Two side. Recent reports have suggested that the player is considering his options at the moment after being frustrated by the lack of chances at Manchester United.

Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on the situation as they look to prise him away. The Englishman is highly regarded across Europe, and Los Blancos believe that he could regain his mojo with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Manchester United eyeing Yusuf Akcicek

Manchester United have set their sights on Yusuf Akcicek, according to Sabah via Sport Witness. The Red Devils have scouted the Turkish defender last season and are pleased with his performances so far.

Akcicek is a left-footed central defender who is very comfortable on the ball. The 19-year-old is also good in the air and is apparently being eyed by multiple clubs across Europe as well.

The Premier League giants are laying down succession plans for Harry Maguire, who is already on the wrong side of 30. Although Manchester United have the likes of Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven in their roster, the chance to sign a young talent like Akcicek is too good to turn down. It is believed that the Turkish defender could be available for €20m this summer.

Andre Onana not in talks to join West Ham United, says Fabrizio Romano

Andre Onana is not in talks to join West Ham United this summer, according to acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano. The Cameroonian has failed to live up to expectations since arriving from Inter Milan in 2023.

Onana watched from the sidelines for the first two game of this season and returned to the starting XI against Grimsby Town. However, the 29-year-old was culpable for both goals in regulation time as Manchester United ultimately lost the game on penalties.

Recent reports have suggested that the Red Devils are in talks to sign Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp as Onana's replacement, prompting rumours of his exit. However, Fabrizio Romano has rubbished claims of a possible loan deal to West Ham United, suggesting that Lammens' arrival may not affect Onana's future.

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