Napoli: McTominay backs Mainoo, tipped him to Conte | OneFootball

According to the online edition of the English newspaper The Sun, Scott McTominay has personally suggested to Antonio Conte the acquisition of Kobbie Mainoo, a young midfielder from Manchester United.

Napoli, McTominay vouches for Mainoo: he suggested him to Conte

The rumor comes at a time when Napoli, dealing with injuries and absences in the midfield, is planning its moves for the January transfer market.

Napoli seeks midfield reinforcements

Sporting director Giovanni Manna is already working to provide Conte with a new addition to the crucial area of the field. The injury of Kevin De Bruyne and the upcoming departure of Zambo Anguissa for the Africa Cup of Nations will indeed force the Azzurri to take action. Mainoo's name has resurfaced strongly in negotiations, also due to McTominay's esteem, who knows him well from their time at Manchester United.

McTominay's suggestion: “Kobbie is a complete talent”

According to The Sun, the Scotsman had a direct conversation with Antonio Conte, during which he pushed for the signing of the young English talent: “Scott went to talk to Conte and told him to take Kobbie Mainoo. He explained his strengths and how he is an exceptional player. They know each other from their United days, and McTominay is convinced he would be a perfect addition for Napoli, whether on loan or permanently. Kobbie has grown in the right way, has the work ethic and maturity needed in a group like Conte's.”

Conte considers the option: Mainoo is an ideal profile for his game

The Salento coach, always very attentive to young but already developed profiles, would have welcomed the advice positively. Mainoo, born in 2005, is a modern, dynamic, and versatile midfielder: he can play as a mezzala, playmaker, or box-to-box midfielder, with a mix of technique and intensity that recalls some of the key players in Conte's system.

The Azzurri club is monitoring the player's contractual situation, who has already made several appearances in the Premier League with United, but might be tempted by an experience in a top European club like Napoli, where he would find a coach capable of enhancing his qualities.

Market scenarios: loan or permanent purchase?

The most realistic option at the moment remains a loan with an option to buy. However, if Conte insists with the management to have the player already in January, it is not excluded that Napoli might attempt a more structured operation. The goal is clear: to strengthen the midfield to maintain high competitiveness on three fronts — Serie A, Champions League, and potential participation in the 2026 Club European Championship.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.