Napoli re-ignite interest in Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo | OneFootball

Kobbie Mainoo (20) wished to leave formative club Manchester United over the summer. The England international was struggling for gametime under Ruben Amorim, with the Portuguese manager prioritising different profiles. Aware of that, Mainoo wanted a loan move away from Old Trafford. However, that wasn’t granted by Manchester United, who chose to retain the young midfielder.

At the time, it was reported that Napoli were one of the interested parties. In the meantime, Mainoo has struggled for first-team opportunities. The Serie A side, who recently lost Kevin De Bruyne to injury, could re-ignite their interest in January, according to a report from Franco-Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri. 

Initially reticent to let their midfielder leave, a meeting between Mainoo’s agents and Manchester United may have given rise to a compromise, Tavolieri understands. The midfielder is keen on a move to Napoli, who could make a loan move that would include a purchase option, which could become an obligation if certain conditions are met. 

Talks with Manchester United could follow, but the Red Devils are keen for their midfielder to move abroad, if he is indeed to leave the club.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle