In a striking move reminiscent of their previous successes, Napoli was keen to court another Manchester United star this summer after securing Rasmus Hojlund on loan.

Scott McTominay, now a hero in Naples after his £25 million transfer, has proven his doubters wrong, becoming a Ballon d'Or nominee since leaving the Red Devils.

This summer, Napoli made headlines again by acquiring Hojlund, who can make his loan permanent for £38 million if the club qualifies for the Champions League by 2026/27.

Hot on Napoli’s heels was United’s Kobbie Mainoo, who expressed a desire to leave after being benched for the first two Premier League matches.

Frustrated with his limited role, Mainoo's plea for a loan was promptly denied by the club, which sparked a frenzy of interest from other European teams.

Reports indicate that Napoli was in pole position to secure Mainoo's services until Ineos stepped in to keep him at Old Trafford.

Clubs like Roma, Marseille, Tottenham, Aston Villa, and Everton also inquired about the young midfielder, but the message was clear: stay and fight for your spot.

United coach Amorim acknowledges Mainoo's potential but insists he must step up his game. With limited playing time this season—with his only start coming in a stunning penalty shootout loss to Grimsby Town—Mainoo needs opportunities to shine.

He did make a notable impact against Burnley when he came on at halftime, and with injuries to Mason Mount and Matheus Cunha, this could be his moment.

Avec Manchester City and Chelsea looming on the horizon, the stage is set for Mainoo to prove himself. He has a history of rising to the occasion, and it remains to be seen if Amorim can carve out a lasting role for this promising talent—or risk losing him, the brightest star to emerge from United's academy in a decade.