Last month, Gazzetta dello Sport reported Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo is pushing for a January exit, and Serie A is very much an option.
This is due to lack of game time, with Napoli keen on bringing him the Maradona Stadium.
The newspaper claimed the 20-year-old was pursued by the Naples club in the summer. A move didn’t go through at that time, despite the player being interested in the switch.
Now, Manchester United’s demands are causing problems for Napoli.
La Repubblica journalist Enrico De Lellis has spoken to CalcioBlog about the England international.
He made it clear the Red Devils either want a dry loan or a permanent sale.
“In midfield, Mainoo is a real target . United are asking for a no-obligation loan or €50m. Neither option is worthwhile for Napoli.”
The journalist further suggested that Lazio’s Matteo Guendouzi could become a target for Napoli.
“Guendouzi comes into play in all this. I know Conte really likes him.”
Manchester United midfielder sees World Cup drifting away
Kobbie Mainoo
Bilbao, Spain – 05 01 2025: Kobbie Mainoo seen during UEFA Europa League semifinal game between teams of Athletic Club and Manchester United FC
In this case, Manchester United’s stance looks like a problem for Mainoo.
He obviously wants to play at the World Cup, having starred at the European Championships in 2024.
Unfortunately for him, Ruben Amorim has shown a high amount of rigidity in his ideas since he arrived at Old Trafford. This has also led to Mainoo being excluded more often than not. He has started just once in the Premier League this season.
The youngster’s appearance against Everton was the first time he’s played 30 minutes since August.