Manchester United Eye Scott McTominay Return Amid Squad Crisis, Willing to Spend £60 Million
Manchester United are reportedly exploring a bold move to bring Scott McTominay back to Old Trafford, with sources suggesting the club could pay around £60 million to re-sign the midfielder from Napoli.
This interest highlights a growing sense of regret among United’s leadership over the decision to sell the academy graduate, particularly as he has since flourished in Serie A, establishing himself as one of Italy’s standout performers.
The club’s current challenges have only amplified this sentiment. A combination of injuries to key players and absences due to international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations has left Ruben Amorim with a severely depleted squad.
Fans and pundits alike have questioned why United parted ways with a dependable and adaptable midfielder like McTominay, especially since his transfer was largely motivated by financial considerations rather than footballing logic. With the squad stretched thin, the absence of a player of McTominay’s caliber is being felt acutely.
Since moving to Napoli, McTominay has undergone a remarkable transformation. The Scottish international became a central figure in Napoli’s recent success, playing a key role in their Scudetto triumph while earning the Serie A Player of the Season award.
His performances have also garnered international recognition, culminating in an 18th-place finish in the Ballon d’Or rankings.
This season, he has continued his impressive form, contributing five goals and three assists while thriving under the tactical guidance of Antonio Conte.
McTominay’s development abroad has only reinforced the perception that United underestimated the potential of one of their own academy products.
Financial circumstances at Napoli could potentially facilitate the midfielder’s return. Reports from CaughtOffside indicate that the Italian club, facing economic challenges, may be willing to entertain offers in the region of £60 million.
While Napoli would ideally prefer to sell during the summer transfer window, a compelling bid in January could prompt them to reconsider and allow an earlier transfer.
However, Manchester United are not the only club tracking McTominay’s situation. Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, and Newcastle United are reportedly monitoring developments closely, meaning any attempt to re-sign him could face significant competition.
This raises a critical question for the Red Devils’ hierarchy and their financial backers at INEOS: do they have the conviction to admit their previous mistake and move decisively, or will McTominay’s potential return remain an unfulfilled wish, serving as a painful reminder of what the club lost at a time when stability is already in short supply?
If United act decisively, the return of McTominay could provide the squad with a familiar, reliable presence in midfield—a player whose versatility, experience, and leadership qualities could help steady a team navigating a turbulent season.
His potential re-signing would also send a message about United’s willingness to correct past errors and prioritize footballing value over short-term financial expediency, a philosophy that could resonate strongly with supporters.
