Ruben Amorim is attempting to block the January departure of a Manchester United star. The club are preparing for a quiet winter transfer window.
United are not expected to make significant additions in January after spending more than £200 million last summer.
Amorim prioritised attacking reinforcements and a new goalkeeper in the summer. But the Red Devils are now planning to wait until the summer to address midfield and wing-back needs.
With no major incomings expected, Amorim is keen to keep his squad intact and has moved to halt interest in one player attracting attention from Italy.
Serie A champions Napoli have identified Kobbie Mainoo as a potential January signing following a difficult spell at Old Trafford.
Mainoo has struggled for minutes this season and has started just once. This has led to speculation that he is open to a move.
Mainoo wants to revive his career and strengthen his hopes of making England’s World Cup squad next summer.
Napoli head coach Antonio Conte is an admirer of the midfielder and believes he could thrive in Serie A. However, Italian outlet Il Mattino reports that Amorim is unwilling to sanction the move.
Despite limited opportunities so far, the United boss views Mainoo as a useful option.
This is more so because during the second half of the season, some of United’s players will leave for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna recently acknowledged the club’s admiration for the Manchester United midfielder. But he also stressed that no decision has been made.
For now, United appear determined to keep hold of the midfielder as Amorim looks to maintain depth during a demanding run of fixtures.
Manchester United will play Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Monday before some players fly to Morocco for the AFCON.
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