Napoli are making progress in talks to sign Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo in January, GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Fabrizio Romano has revealed.
The Serie A side are believed to be leading the race for the 20-year-old midfielder’s signature next month, with Mainoo prioritising a move to the Italian club after receiving initial interest last summer.
While United have yet to make a decision on whether to let the midfielder leave next month, Mainoo is open to a departure, having struggled for regular minutes under Ruben Amorim this season.
The 20-year-old ‘superstar’ has yet to start a Premier League game in 2025/26, with all 11 of his appearances coming off the bench.
Mainoo ‘Really Wants’ Napoli Move
Romano, speaking on his Italian YouTube channel, revealed that Mainoo really wants to join Napoli next month, with the move also appealing to both the 20-year-old’s family and representatives:
“Mainoo really, really wants Napoli. The move appeals to the player, it appeals to his family.
“It also appeals to Mainoo’s representatives, who are prioritising Napoli and appreciate the fact that last summer, when Kobbie was open to a possible loan, Napoli immediately showed great enthusiasm and strong interest.
“Mainoo really wants Napoli. He gives a preference to Napoli even compared to the other 10–12 clubs that are lining up for him.
“Here is the issue: we are waiting for Manchester United. We continue to wait for Manchester United. I’ve always told you this: this is the key step.
“Napoli, meanwhile, during the last few days, during the last few hours, continue to make progress on the player’s side. And believe me, it’s not a small detail when you have such a strong player and so many interested clubs.
“So, work in progress. But on the player’s side, Napoli is moving very strongly and very well.”
Mainoo has made just one start for United this season, in the shock Carabao Cup defeat to Grimsby Town in August.
Earlier this month, Amorim revealed the England international is competing for a starting spot with United captain Bruno Fernandes, who has been irreplaceable for the Portuguese manager ever since he took charge last year.
United Targeting New Midfielder
Man United are actively looking to bolster their midfield with at least one new signing next year, with the Premier League trio of Adam Wharton, Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba all on the shortlist.
According to Romano, Baleba appears to remain the ‘top’ option for Amorim ahead of the market reopening in January, though a move for the midfielder may prove difficult at this point of the season.
United were priced out of a move for Baleba before the campaign, with Brighton reportedly demanding around £120m for the Cameroonian.
The Red Devils appear to be keeping an eye on potentially more attainable options in January, including Atletico Madrid star Conor Gallagher, who could be available on loan.
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