Mainoo keen on Napoli, United resist: Amorim blocks AFCON sales | OneFootball

The Napoli sporting director, Giovanni Manna, spoke about Kobbie Mainoo, who has been linked to the team. “Mainoo has been linked to us since August, due to his age, potential, and opportunities. Our players will return from injuries, and we need to make the right evaluations to understand how their recoveries will progress,” he said to Sky.

Manchester United, Mainoo fascinated by Napoli, but United holds back: Amorim does not want sales during the Africa Cup of Nations

Kobbie Mainoo is one of the most followed names by Napoli to strengthen the midfield. It's not just a simple suggestion: according to sources close to the club, he is among the three most valued profiles by the technical staff and management.

The pressure from suitors is significant. Besides Napoli, more than twelve clubs have requested information, some with the idea of arranging a loan. However, this is an unrealistic option for a talent who, under normal conditions, would be a starter even at Manchester United.

Manna's words: openness, caution, and ongoing evaluations

On the eve of Benfica–Napoli, sporting director Giovanni Manna addressed the topic with caution, yet conveyed genuine appreciation for the young midfielder:

“Mainoo is a player who has been linked to Napoli since August, also for age, potential, and opportunities. The team is doing well and has solidified. We have important absences, but our players will soon return. We need to make the right evaluations, let's see how the situation evolves.”

Statements that do not close any doors and confirm Napoli's interest, even within the framework of a complex and ever-evolving market.

Romano: “Mainoo is tempted by Napoli, but the green light must come from United”

In his YouTube analysis, Fabrizio Romano detailed the state of the negotiation, highlighting a key point: Mainoo is genuinely attracted to the idea of moving to Napoli.

Romano explains: “I’ve been talking about Mainoo since August, and he has always remained among the top names on Napoli's list. The club has valued him for some time, and the player is very tempted by the possibility of wearing the Napoli jersey.”

Despite the interest from numerous European clubs, the midfielder's position is clear: he considers Napoli a highly interesting destination, also thanks to the technical project and the guarantee of a central role in the medium term.

The real obstacle: Manchester United's position and the management of the Africa Cup of Nations

The main issue does not concern the player's will, but rather that of Manchester United. Amorim's team will face a complicated January: several squad members will be engaged in the Africa Cup of Nations, reducing the available options.

Romano adds: “United does not intend to part with players considered fundamental at the beginning of January. This applies to both Mainoo and Zirkzee. Amorim does not want to lose important pieces during the most complex phase of the season.”

For this reason, the only possible opening might come only at the end of the market, when the English club will have a definitive picture of the squad's availability. Until the “green light” comes from Manchester, Napoli can only maintain contact and continue internal evaluations.

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