Kobbie Mainoo. (REUTERS/Peter Powell)
Napoli continue to track Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and are interested in a loan move for the player in January. The Serie A champions were in advanced talks with the United over a move for Mainoo in the latter stages of the summer window, but ultimately could not get the deal over the line.
Mainoo has become unsettled at United after falling down the pecking order under Ruben Amorim. The England international requested a loan transfer in an effort to gain more playing time ahead of next summer’s World Cup, but was denied by the club.
Boss Amorim stated publicly that the player must stay and fight for his place in the side. A few months on and Mainoo’s fate hasn’t changed much, with the player failing to start a Premier League game so far this season.
He was an unused substitute in United’s opening two games, before appearing from the bench in their most recent five. Napoli remain keen on the midfielder and hope to reopen talks over a January move. Sky Sports Switzerland has reported that talks between the club and Mainoo’s representatives have already taken place.
Napoli still chasing Mainoo
Personal terms are not expected to be an issue, with the player reportedly keen on the move to Serie A. Napoli are understood to be in pole position to land the player.
Mainoo might me encouraged by the success of his former teammates Rasmus Hojlund and Scott McTominay, who are thriving in Naples. Hojlund joined Napoli this summer and is enjoying life in Italy scoring four goals in his first six appearances for the club.
McTominay played a crucial role in Napoli’s Serie A triumph last season, scoring 12 goals and adding four assists while earning the Serie A MVP award. Mainoo could be looking to revitalize his career with a change of scenery.
Still highly rated inside Old Trafford, the 20-year-old will still hold out hope of breaking back into the fold at United. His current deal expires in 2027.
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