Report: Napoli aim to finalise McTominay renewal before 2026 World Cup as Man Utd return ruled out | OneFootball

Manchester United have firmly distanced themselves from reports linking them with a sensational move to re-sign Scott McTominay as Napoli look to wrap up a contract extension before the 2026 World Cup begins.

TEAMtalk are reporting, via IlNapolista, that the Scottish midfielder’s name has never even been raised in internal discussions at Old Trafford, despite speculation from Spain suggesting the Red Devils were weighing up an £70 million move for their former player.

The reports had gathered momentum given McTominay’s outstanding form since his £25 million move to Napoli, where he has established himself as one of the most influential midfielders in Serie A.

GENOA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 7: Scott McTominay of Napoli (right) celebrates with Antonio Conte, head coach of Napoli, and his team-mates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

Napoli look to extend McTominay contract

While United’s interest has been categorically denied, the more significant development is what is happening at Napoli’s end.

According to TEAMtalk, McTominay’s entourage has already opened talks over a contract extension, with the club keen to tie him down well beyond his current deal, which runs until 2028.

Crucially, Napoli are said to want the renewal wrapped up before McTominay departs for North America this summer for the World Cup, a timeline that underlines just how highly Antonio Conte’s club regard him.

MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 11: Scott McTominay of SSC Napoli celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

McTominay himself has done little to fuel any exit talk. Speaking to Corriere dello Sport, he was unequivocal.

“My agent has not spoken to anyone about my future,” he said, before adding that he could see himself staying at Napoli for a long time.

For a player who has reinvented himself so emphatically since leaving English football, there appears to be little appetite for a return, and Napoli are doing everything they can to make sure it stays that way.