The BIG SIGNING that Conte wants for Napoli in January

The Italian club already tried to sign this player in the summer, but he decided to stay at his club, now things have changed radically

Héctor Andreu | 9 Oct 2025 | 16.15
twitter tiktok instagram instagram Comentarios
SSSC Napoli wants to sign Kobbie Mainoo in January / Record
SSSC Napoli wants to sign Kobbie Mainoo in January / Record

UEFA Champions League
1 X 2
PSV Napoli
21/10/25 21:00:00
3.25 3.30 2.20

For weeks now, the name of Kobbie Mainoo has been emerging strongly as a protagonist in the winter transfer market rumors. The young midfielder from Manchester United is once again attracting interest from Serie A, with Napoli leading an operation that promises movement and tension at Old Trafford.

Napoli sharpening their plan to sign Kobbie Mainoo

The Neapolitan team has not given up on the English midfielder. As reported by 'Calciomercato,' after a failed attempt in the summer, the club chaired by Aurelio De Laurentiis is preparing a new offensive for January. Antonio Conte has been clear with the sporting direction: he wants a midfielder with the mentality, physique, and tactical ability to cover the absence of Franck Zambo-Anguissa, who will be playing in the Africa Cup of Nations with Cameroon between December and January.

Conte sees Kobbie Mainoo as the ideal profile to fit into his system. The Italian coach values his maturity despite his young age and believes he can bring balance and dynamism in midfield. The Azzurri also believe they have a certain advantage: the Englishman is not getting the prominence he expected at Manchester United, and his situation could facilitate a temporary exit.

The challenging equation at Manchester United

The midfielder's present is as promising as it is uncertain. Last season, Kobbie Mainoo was only a starter in 12 official matches, and in the current season, he has played just 203 minutes in all competitions. A figure that highlights his secondary role under the orders of Ruben Amorim, who, despite his statements of confidence, has not given him continuity.

"He would like to play more, like many others. Many think he is a complete player, but he needs to do more," said the Portuguese coach a few weeks ago. The words are kind, but the facts show that the player born in Stockport is not among his immediate priorities. The player's own circle is seriously considering a change of scenery to avoid hindering his development.

Serie A: the ideal stage for a comeback

The Serie A could offer Mainoo the perfect context to establish himself. In Italy, the tactical pace, physical demands, and the confidence Conte usually gives to young players can be the springboard he needs. At Napoli, the team structure would allow the Englishman to compete for a real position, especially during Anguissa's absence.

Moreover, the southern club is accustomed to betting on young players from the Premier League. The arrival of Kobbie Mainoo would fit into that line of international projection that has characterized Napoli in recent years. The Italian coach believes he can mold his talent to turn him into a midfield reference in the medium term.

Kobbie Mainoo vuelve a ser objetivo del Nápoles

A sought-after yet complex signing

However, the operation will not be simple. Manchester United does not plan to give away one of its most promising assets. Only an attractive offer—whether a loan with a purchase option or a sale with variable clauses—could convince the English board. The high cost of the operation and the competition from other Serie A clubs could hinder the agreement.

A crucial January for Mainoo's future

All signs point to the upcoming winter market being crucial in Kobbie Mainoo's career. If Napoli manages to secure his signing, the young midfielder could find in Italy the perfect stage to relaunch his career and demonstrate his true potential.

On the other hand, if Manchester United decides to retain him, they risk keeping one of their most promising talents in a secondary role that hinders his progression. January will indeed mark a before and after in the immediate future of Kobbie Mainoo, who is destined to be a protagonist within or outside of Old Trafford.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El BOMBAZO que Conte quiere en el Nápoles para enero