Mirror: De Bruyne & McTominay Advise Napoli to Sign Mainoo, Potential Loan-to-Buy Deal from Manchester United

November 2 – According to a report by English media outlet *The Mirror*, Serie A club Napoli are determined to sign English midfielder Kobbie Mainoo from Manchester United in the January transfer window, and are even willing to fully cover his £35,000-per-week wages.  

*The Mirror* states that Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has informed Manchester United of this intention and has consulted two former Manchester players now at Napoli, Kevin De Bruyne and Scott McTominay. Both believe the English midfielder would be a perfect fit for manager Antonio Conte's tactical system.  

Although Napoli pursued Mainoo last summer, the player chose to remain at Old Trafford after reassurances from then-new manager Rúben Amorim. However, this season the 20-year-old academy graduate has made only eight appearances, with just one start in the Premier League. With Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes firmly established as midfield starters, Mainoo understands that securing regular playing time through a transfer is essential if he hopes to make England's squad for the 2026 World Cup.  

It is reported that Napoli are exploring a loan-to-buy deal, aligning with their successful model of recruiting players who have struggled for opportunities at Manchester United. McTominay was named Serie A Player of the Year last season, while Rasmus Højlund, who joined on loan this summer, has scored four goals in seven appearances.  

Although manager Amorim vetoed Mainoo's departure on September's deadline day, he explained at the time: "I had not spoken to him earlier because I did not want him to feel forced to stay. I have high expectations for him, but some believe he has already reached his ceiling. I, however, see significant room for growth. It may seem unfair to treat a talent this way, but setting high standards is the true form of support."  

Source: *Mirror*