Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho has reportedly reached an agreement with Napoli regarding a possible January transfer, according to reports from Italian media.
Garnacho’s Uncertain Position at Manchester United
The 20-year-old’s future at Old Trafford has come under scrutiny as concerns grow over Manchester United’s compliance with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Despite navigating a challenging second consecutive season, Garnacho has remained a standout performer, making 30 appearances in all competitions this term and emerging as the club’s top scorer with eight goals.
However, his status within the squad has changed significantly. Since the arrival of Ruben Amorim, Garnacho has primarily been used as an impact substitute, a sharp contrast to the key role he held under former manager Erik ten Hag. This shift, coupled with Amad Diallo surpassing him in the pecking order, has reportedly left Garnacho frustrated.
Agreement in Principle with Napoli
Reports from Calciomercato indicate that Garnacho has agreed in principle to a move to Napoli. The agreement reportedly came after Napoli’s sporting director, Giovanni Manna, held talks with the player’s representatives in Barcelona. Garnacho is said to be keen on the prospect of playing under Antonio Conte, who has revitalized Napoli in their quest to remain Serie A contenders.
The proposed contract would span five years, offering Garnacho an annual salary of £2.5 million after tax. While this marks a slight reduction from his current £2.6 million salary at United, the contract reportedly includes incremental salary increases over time.
Napoli’s Plans and Financial Constraints
Napoli are actively seeking a replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who is poised to join Paris Saint-Germain in a deal worth £59 million. Garnacho is viewed as a key target to fill that void.
Manchester United’s Scott McTominay, who joined Napoli for £26 million last summer, could help Garnacho settle in should the deal materialize. However, a transfer remains uncertain as Napoli’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, is reportedly unwilling to exceed a £42 million bid—well below United’s valuation of Garnacho.
United’s Contingency Plans and Transfer Activity
Despite Garnacho’s uncertain future, Manchester United are pressing forward with plans to bolster Ruben Amorim’s attack. Reports suggest that the Red Devils are exploring options both with and without Garnacho in their lineup.
According to RMC Sport, United have joined Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur in pursuing Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo during the January transfer window. The 25-year-old has been in scintillating form this season, boasting versatility to play as a central striker or an inside forward in Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 system.
While Mbeumo’s current market value is estimated at £42 million by Transfermarkt, Brentford are expected to demand a higher fee given his outstanding performances this season.
Garnacho’s potential departure from Old Trafford remains a significant storyline, with Napoli emerging as a serious contender for his signature. However, the financial gap between Napoli’s offer and United’s valuation could stall the deal for now. Meanwhile, Manchester United remain active in the transfer market, preparing for all scenarios as they aim to strengthen their squad under Ruben Amorim.