Napoli are set to reignite their interest in Kobbie Mainoo in January after mulling over a transfer for the Manchester United midfielder in the summer transfer window
Kobbie Mainoo
Napoli admire Kobbie Mainoo and could make a move for the Man United midfielder
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Napoli are hopeful of securing a deal for Kobbie Mainoo in January, but Manchester United may only agree to the move under one condition.
The Italian heavyweights believe that United might be open to a transfer, provided any loan agreement does not include an option to buy.
Antonio Conte's team is expected to renew their interest in Mainoo after considering a transfer previously. The Serie A champions had initiated discussions to sign the England international during the summer, but altered their transfer strategy following Romelu Lukaku's injury.
As per Gazzetta dello Sport, Napoli are confident they can strike a deal with United as they plan a second bid for the 20-year-old.
Mainoo also attracted attention from Tottenham, Aston Villa and Everton in the previous transfer window.
Kobbie Mainoo
Kobbie Mainoo could move on loan in Janary(Image: Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
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United did not entertain the player's desire for a loan move during the final week of the summer transfer window, and the Manchester Evening News understands that Mainoo did not want to leave his boyhood club on a permanent basis.
The midfielder has found it challenging to secure a place in Ruben Amorim's plans this season and is yet to start a Premier League match, with Bruno Fernandes occupying a central role on the pitch.
The promising academy graduate will be eager to secure more game time ahead of next summer's World Cup. To improve his performance, Mainoo has changed his private chef and worked with a personal coach during the September international break.
Amorim stated last month that Mainoo will get opportunities, but he wants to see his young player improve. "Like a lot of guys, he wants to play more," said Amorim.
"I believe a lot in Kobbie but some of you think that Kobbie Mainoo is already done. I think he can do so much better. He can improve in a lot.
"And sometimes I think for some guys it's [the level he's playing at now] enough. For him, it's not enough. Maybe it's not fair but I think I'm helping Kobbie Mainoo and that's it.
"He will have opportunities like the other guys. If I feel during the week that he's the best player to play, he's going to play and I proved that already to every player here.
"I believe a lot in him. I have the same thing [opinion] that you have and that is a top, top player, but he can be so much better, so I'm focused on that."
Scott McTominay has already shown what former United players can achieve at Napoli after helping the Italian side secure the Serie A title and earning player of the year honours following his transfer.
Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund has also quickly found his feet since returning to Italy. The Danish forward has scored four goals in six games since his move.