Eljif Elmas has been one of Napoli’s best players this season and Manchester United’s interest in him is now growing.
On Tuesday, Sport Witness covered the midfielder’s situation, with him currently being on loan in Naples from RB Leipzig. Red Devils’ interest in him was growing as Napoli’s option to buy him permanently stood at just €16m.
This is seen as a bargain in the current market, especially considering how well the Macedonian has done this season. Napoli could sign the midfielder for that low price, and them make a quick profit.
Other Premier League clubs could also be keen on Elmas, and Manchester United’s interest has now attracted more attention.
Napoli’s stance helping Manchester United
Tuttomercatoweb report today that Napoli are unsure about exercising their €16m option to buy in the summer.
The Italian champions recognise how well the versatile midfielder has done but they could hold talks with Leipzig to reduce their asking price.
The reasons are purely financial. The German side paid Napoli €24m to initially sign Elmas in 2024. In 2026, his value on their books is only at €12m, which is why the Partenopei believe the €16m price tag is higher than it should be.
This uncertainty is likely to help Manchester United, who can land the player directly from the Bundesliga side, and take advantage of Napoli trying to be cheap.
Leipzig can stick to their €16m asking price, which is unlikely to be a problem for Old Trafford club.
If not that, they can potentially lower their price tag slightly once Elmas returns from the loan and sell him to another club instead of capitulating to Napoli.
Our take on Elmas to Manchester United
Since his first stint at Napoli, Elmas has played almost everywhere across midfield. He has been used deeper this season by Antonio Conte but under Luciano Spalletti, he also played in attacking midfield and on the flanks.
He is still only 26 and at a very good age, while having quite a bit of experience. Manchester United have obvious midfield problems and he can fill into multiple roles, including defensive midfield.
This can make Elmas a very important squad player, especially if he is signed for less than €20m in the summer.