Rumours about Kobbie Mainoo's future are heating up again, with Napoli planning a massive swoop in the January 2026 transfer window.

According to Calciomercato, the Southern Italian team, under the direction of coach Antonio Conte, is actively preparing a new offer after the failure last summer.

Imago - Kobbie Mainoo.jpeg
Mainoo is highly appreciated by Conte. Photo: Imago

Conte's requirements were clear: he needed a midfielder with the mindset, physicality and tactical ability to fill the huge void left by Franck Zambo-Anguissa when he attended the Africa Cup of Nations.

The Italian strategist sees Mainoo as the ideal piece, appreciating his maturity and ability to bring balance and dynamism to Napoli's midfield.

In fact, the current situation at Old Trafford is giving Napoli hope. Despite being highly rated, Mainoo has only played 203 minutes this season and started just 12 games last season under Ruben Amorim.

Not being given priority to play on the field has made the player born in 2025 and his representatives seriously consider changing the environment to promote his career.

Moreover, the 2026 World Cup is coming so Mainoo is even more determined to leave MU. He is not noticed by coach Thomas Tuchel when he is constantly "wearing his pants on the bench".

Conte believes Serie A is the perfect launchpad for Mainoo, where the tactical and physical intensity will help him develop, especially at Napoli where he could be a regular starter in Anguissa's absence.

Napoli also have a successful history with Premier League players, with McTominay being the clearest example with Mainoo.

Although knowing that Manchester United will not easily let go of their "precious gem", Napoli is ready to make an attractive offer - it could be a loan with a buy-out clause or a sale with additional fees.

This coming January will be pivotal, deciding whether Mainoo can find the big stage in Italy to assert his true potential.

Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/hlv-conte-yeu-cau-napoli-day-nhanh-chieu-mo-kobbie-mainoo-tu-mu-2451843.html