Scotland International Linked With Old Trafford Reunion
Scott McTominay is reportedly attracting serious interest from Manchester United FC, with Italian sources suggesting the Red Devils are currently at the front of the queue should he leave SSC Napoli. The Scotland international has impressed during his time in Serie A but is said to be considering a return to English football in 2026.
After departing Old Trafford in the summer of 2024 for a reported £32 million ($44m), McTominay embraced a new challenge in Naples. His move marked the end of a long association with United, where he progressed through the academy system and went on to make 255 senior appearances.
Historic Debut Season in Italy
McTominay’s first campaign in Italy proved to be remarkable. He played a key role in helping Napoli secure the Serie A title and earned widespread individual recognition for his performances. His impact in midfield was reflected not only in consistent displays but also in notable statistical achievements.
During his debut season, McTominay broke a long-standing record previously held by Denis Law, surpassing the mark for the most goals scored by a Scotsman in a single Serie A campaign. The achievement ended a record that had stood for more than six decades and underlined his attacking contribution from midfield.
His form led to further accolades, including a Player of the Year award in Italy and a nomination for the Ballon d’Or. He has continued to deliver consistent performances, already reaching double figures for goals again this season. Despite being contracted with Napoli until 2028, speculation has begun to surface regarding his long-term plans.
Napoli Acknowledges Growing Interest
Napoli officials have publicly addressed the attention surrounding their midfielder. Leonardo Giammarioli, the club’s global business development officer, admitted concern over potential interest from abroad while also recognising McTominay’s ambitions.
He stated that while the club would prefer to retain the Scotland international, circumstances in modern football can make departures difficult to prevent. Financial pressures within Italian football and the lure of larger markets often influence transfer outcomes when significant offers arrive.
Reports from Tuttomercatoweb suggest that McTominay is open to the idea of returning to the Premier League sooner rather than later. It is claimed that personal considerations, including discussions with his partner Cam Reading, have contributed to thoughts about eventually heading back to England.
Among the English clubs linked with a potential move, Manchester United are described as “leading the way.” The report indicates that while McTominay remains content in Naples, a return to familiar surroundings remains an ambition for the future.
Could a Reunion Happen?
Questions remain over whether a deal would be financially viable. Former United defender Wes Brown recently cast doubt on the likelihood of such a transfer, pointing to the substantial fee that would likely be required.
Brown praised McTominay’s development since leaving Old Trafford, highlighting how the midfielder has continued to improve after stepping outside his comfort zone. He suggested that while admiration from United supporters is understandable, completing a return might prove challenging.
He also noted that McTominay’s evolution into a more advanced midfield role has been crucial to his success. Rather than operating strictly as a holding midfielder, he has thrived with the freedom to contribute in attacking areas, making late runs into the box and adding consistent goal output.
United Assess Midfield Options
Manchester United are currently evaluating midfield reinforcements as uncertainty surrounds several key players. Veteran Brazilian midfielder Casemiro is approaching the end of his contract, while speculation persists regarding the long-term future of club captain Bruno Fernandes.
The Red Devils have also been linked with Elliott Anderson of Nottingham Forest FC and Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace FC as part of their midfield planning.
Whether McTominay ultimately returns to Old Trafford remains uncertain. For now, he continues to perform at a high level in Italy, while reports suggest that Manchester United remain attentive to any opportunity that could bring the Scotland international back to the Premier League.
