KOBBIE MAINOO is ready to quit Manchester United in January with the young midfielder eyeing a stunning switch to Europe.
The 20-year-old has grown increasingly frustrated under Ruben Amorim, and the Daily Mail is reporting that he’s already identified Napoli as his first-choice if he’s given the green light to leave.
United manager Amorim has been reluctant to use Mainoo despite the club’s poor form[/caption]
Italian manager Antonio Conte is reportedly open to having Mainoo[/caption]
Mainoo had pushed for a loan exit before the summer transfer window slammed shut but United blocked the move, insisting he would have a key role to play in the new season.
Since then, he’s been stuck on the bench, managing just three appearances as a substitute, with no starts in any competition.
That lack of game time is now a major concern for both the player and his camp.
It showed during Saturday’s disappointing 3-1 defeat to Brentford, when Mainoo, brought on late in the second half- made a costly error in stoppage-time, gifting the Bees their third goal.
That moment was the tipping point and the England international is reportedly preparing to ask to leave again in January, especially if Amorim is still in the Old Trafford dugout by then.
Napoli had already expressed strong interest in the midfielder during the summer and the feeling was mutual.
Mainoo is understood to be excited by the opportunity to play abroad, and Napoli’s project appeals to him.
The Italian side are building a young, dynamic team, and Mainoo would be joining a growing English-speaking core in Naples.
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Scott McTominay has transformed into a world class midfielder in Napoli[/caption]
Former United team-mate Scott McTominay is already a star in Naples, while striker Rasmus Hojlund who joined last summer is finding his smile again.
It’s not just Napoli keeping close tabs. Spanish giants Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid are also reportedly monitoring the situation closely and could make a move if United show any willingness to sell.
Madrid, in particular, have been keeping a close eye on emerging talent across Europe, and see Mainoo as a potential long-term investment.
His composure, passing range and tactical awareness have drawn comparisons to Luka Modric, who left the club last summer.
Atletico, meanwhile, view Mainoo as a possible replacement for aging midfielders in their current set-up and would be prepared to offer regular minutes — something he’s craving.
United fans have been left puzzled by Amorim’s reluctance to use the young star, who was one of the standout performers under Erik ten Hag.
Rasmus Hojlund is looking good again after joining Napoli[/caption]
