Man United stand firm as Napoli and West Ham eye Zirkzee and Mainoo loans | OneFootball

Manchester United duo Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo are attracting interest in the transfer market despite the Red Devils being reluctant to let the pair go.

According to an update from Fabrizio Romano, Man United academy product Mainoo is drawing transfer interest from Italy, where Napoli are keen to take him on loan.

After losing Kevin de Bruyne to injury, they want the Man Utd midfielder to bolster their numbers.

They have been following the England international since the summer transfer window.

They are not alone in the race for his signature. West Ham United are also keen on taking him away from Old Trafford.

The Hammers want a double deal for the Manchester United duo.

They would like both Zirkzee and Mainoo on loan for the second half of the season, as they look to avoid relegation and help them secure their place at the 2026 World Cup.

Romano said, “Ruben Amorim is insisting to keep them because there will be many games in the next months.

“Man Utd are not playing in European competitions, but they’re in a very good moment, there will be many games around Christmas time and at the end of the year.

“Amorim wants as many players as possible.”

Manchester United’s stance may seem harsh on players hoping to secure more game time ahead of the 2026 World Cup, but it is ultimately the right call for the club.

Amorim knows he cannot afford to weaken his squad midway through the season.

Zirkzee remains vital as cover for Benjamin Sesko, whose workload will only increase as the campaign intensifies.

Meanwhile, Mainoo is the most natural deputy for Bruno Fernandes in midfield.

Allowing either to leave could expose United to depth issues at a crucial stage of the season.

Amorim’s decision reflects a focus on collective success over individual ambitions, a tough but necessary stance for a team aiming to return to the top.