Scott McTominay: Napoli planning contract extension to ward off suitors

Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag made the surprising decision to offload Scott McTominay last summer, with the midfielder joining Napoli on a four-year deal.

Critics and pundits often pointed to the lack of technical quality in his play, but that was mainly due to the Scot being misprofiled as a defensive midfielder.

He is best at playing further forward, from where he can make late runs into the box and be a genuine goal threat. Something Antonio Conte identified pretty quickly.

The Carrington graduate scored 13 times in all competitions last season while also registering six assists as the Naples outfit clinched the Serie A title.

His impressive form saw the 28-year-old crowned as Serie A MVP while he came 18th in the Ballon d’Or shortlist . The ex-United star has continued his red-hot form this term, scoring four times already.

And naturally, plenty of English sides as well as Barcelona are eyeing the Scotland international with reports stating he is open to leaving Italy .

But Teamtalk have now reported that the defending Serie A champions are in no mood to let him leave and are preparing a two-year contract extension.

“Despite interest from Barcelona, Tottenham and Newcastle in McTominay, a January move is pretty much categorically off the table. McTominay’s transformation from a Man Utd outcast to a Napoli linchpin has been nothing short of sensational.

“While it is only logical that top clubs, such as Barcelona, Tottenham and Newcastle are taking interest in McTominay, Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has no intention of disrupting a title charge.

“Sources have told TEAMtalk that McTominay, who is under contract at Napoli until 2028, is “extremely happy” in Naples, thriving under Conte’s regime and embracing the city’s passion.

“Scott loves the life here,” a source said. “The fans treat him like family.” However, a Premier League return in the summer of 2026 remains a live possibility.

“McTominay has never hidden his affection for English football, and sources say he would listen to “the right project.” Napoli, aware of his value, plan contract extension talks in January, aiming to tie him down until 2030 with a significant release clause.”

The Red Devils had added a 10 percent sell-on fee as part of the agreement with Napoli, and should their former star move for big money, INEOS’ coffers will receive a nice boost.

Feature image Francesco Pecoraro via Getty Images

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