Napoli make initial contact for Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo

Napoli is making a serious push to sign Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo in January, with the young English player identified as the club’s top priority target for the upcoming transfer window.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Azzurri have re-engaged with the player’s entourage, confirming their strong interest in securing his services.

Mainoo is Napoli’s first-choice January target

The report explicitly states that Mainoo is the primary objective for Napoli in January, citing two major midfield departures that mandate a reinforcement: The club needs to compensate for the confirmed absences of Kevin De Bruyne (out until at least February after surgery) and Frank Anguissa (departing for the Africa Cup of Nations in December/January).

Loan push

This renewed contact follows initial attempts by Napoli’s Director of Sport, Giovanni Manna, during the summer transfer window. The 20-year-old, who has seen very limited playing time at Old Trafford (138 minutes in 7 Premier League appearances, none as a starter), is pushing for a loan move to gain continuity ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

While English clubs are generally reluctant to agree to loan deals, Mainoo’s strong desire for playing time and Napoli’s persistent interest make him the first name Manna will aggressively pursue in the winter market. The club is reportedly preparing alternative options, including Roma’s Lorenzo Pellegrini, should negotiations with Manchester United fail.