Napoli are searching for solutions after star signing Kevin De Bruyne suffered a thigh injury. Below you will see inormation about this news which has been summarized The Football Insight.
The Serie A champions need a strong replacement fast as they continue to fight in both the league and Europe. With Antonio Conte demanding more depth in midfield, the club is once again looking at Premier League talent.
This time, the focus is on Manchester United’s young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who has caught their attention before. Reports from Sky Sports say Napoli’s interest is serious, and a January deal is being discussed. With De Bruyne sidelined, Mainoo has suddenly become a major target to fill the gap.
Mainoo’s Lack of Minutes Sparks Transfer Talks
Mainoo broke into United’s senior squad with big expectations after rising through their famous academy. But this season has been difficult he has played only eight matches and started just once, in a Carabao Cup loss to Grimsby. In the Premier League, he has not started a single game, as Ruben Amorim prefers different players for his 3-4-3 formation.
With little playing time and his future uncertain, Mainoo is open to a move. United do not want to sell him permanently yet, but Napoli are pushing for a loan with an option to buy. A final decision may depend on how much he plays if he moves to Italy.
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Permanent Deal on the Horizon?
Napoli’s offer could lead to a permanent transfer by 2026 if performance targets are met. That means his long-term future may depend on how well he adapts to Italian football under Conte. United seem more comfortable sending him abroad rather than to another Premier League team.
They have already rejected interest from English clubs to avoid strengthening rivals. Mainoo is reportedly tempted by the chance to learn under Conte, a manager known for improving midfielders and to join Scott McTominay, another United academy graduate already thriving in Naples.
United Facing More Exits This Winter
Mainoo might not be the only player heading to Serie A. Striker Joshua Zirkzee is also struggling for minutes and wants a January move to revive his career. Roma are the leading contender to sign him, with AC Milan also watching closely as they search for more attacking firepower.
Zirkzee is ready to take a pay cut if it means regular football again. But his departure would leave United short in attack after Rasmus Hojlund joined Napoli earlier this year. With limited options behind Benjamin Sesko, the club may be forced to rethink their squad plans quickly. Follow footballcoasters.co.uk for weekly deep dives into football’s biggest story.