Napoli increase interest in Mainoo as midfielder shortage worsens
Napoli's search for a reliable midfield solution has entered a critical phase, with the Serie A club renewing its search for Kobby Mainu as injuries continue to destabilize the season. According to Football Italia's Alfredo Pedulla, contact has been made with Manchester United again as the Italian side assess their options ahead of the January window.
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Napoli's midfield plans accelerate
What started as a contingency plan has now become a full-blown priority. Napoli's recruitment strategy initially focused on lightening the load after Kevin De Bruyne suffered a major setback early in the campaign. That problem soon became worse when Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa joined the injured list, followed by Billy Gilmour, who now faces surgery early next week.
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As a result, Antonio Conte is faced with a midfield problem that urgently needs strengthening. Results have fallen, the team's balance has been shaken, and domestic pressure is mounting for quick intervention. That urgency has shifted attention to Maina, whose profile and composure in possession have long attracted Napoli's technical staff.
Mainu is back in the spotlight for Napoli
Napoli's interest in Main is not new. Contacts were first made a few weeks ago, and earlier in the summer window there were suggestions that several Serie A clubs were considering bids for the 20-year-old. At the time, Manchester United made their position clear: Maina was not for sale and the club intended to retain one of their most promising academy graduates.
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However, circumstances are evolving. With Napoli's midfield stretched beyond its capabilities, the club have carried out a fresh investigation in recent days to understand whether there has been any softening of Manchester United's position. The youngster remains one of the top names on their shortlist and internal discussions continue over whether an offer could be put forward that could prompt the Premier League club to negotiate.
United decision looming
While interest from Italy is strong, any progress depends on Manchester United's willingness to take part. Mainoo has been instrumental in their long-term planning and although there is competition for his signature, the club retain all leverage at this stage.
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There is still a distance between interest and agreement. At present, no agreement is imminent and the situation remains fragile. Both sides are expected to reconsider their views in the coming weeks as the January window approaches, but for now Mainoo's future is firmly in the hands of his current employers.
January window may determine next steps
The urgency for Napoli's action is clear as the club's midfield crisis continues to deepen. Whether this pressure will lead to a breakthrough in negotiations remains unclear, but Mainoo's name is expected to feature prominently in the Italian side's plans as they look to salvage their season.
Source: Football Italia – Alfredo Pedulla.
