Serie A giants Napoli have reportedly shown interest in acquiring Manchester United defender Harry Maguire on a free transfer next summer. The 31-year-old centre-back could depart Old Trafford at the end of the season if his one-year contract option is not activated. If this happens, Maguire would be free to negotiate pre-contract agreements with foreign clubs as early as January.
Maguire’s Potential Fit at Napoli
Maguire’s time under Erik ten Hag at Manchester United has been turbulent, with the defender often not starting regularly and losing the captaincy. However, there are indications that his playing style could suit Ruben Amorim’s tactical system at Napoli. Maguire played the full 90 minutes in a 2-1 derby victory over Manchester City, lining up in a back three, a formation familiar to him from his time with the England national team.
Despite his recent inclusion in the starting lineup, Amorim’s first-choice defensive trio is expected to consist of Leny Yoro, Lisandro Martinez, and Matthijs de Ligt. Additionally, Noussair Mazraoui is also a potential option for the right-sided centre-back role.
Possible Reunion for Maguire in Naples
Maguire has shared that he has had “positive” discussions with Manchester United’s management regarding his contract, but it is widely believed that he will seek a new challenge next summer. According to The Athletic, Napoli manager Antonio Conte, who knows Maguire well from his Premier League days, supports the idea of bringing him to Italy on a free transfer.
Napoli has already acquired Scott McTominay from Manchester United in 2024, and Conte has reportedly been “hugely impressed” by the Scotland international’s performances. McTominay has been a regular starter in the Serie A campaign, contributing three goals and three assists in 14 league matches. Given this success, Napoli is believed to be looking for further defensive reinforcements.
Napoli’s Current Position and Future Plans
Napoli are currently at the top of Serie A, leading a tight race for the Scudetto. However, they hold just a one-point advantage over Atalanta BC, who have a game in hand, and a four-point lead over Inter Milan, who have played two fewer matches.
Maguire’s Future at Manchester United
Although Maguire has struggled to adapt to Manchester United’s demands in a back four, his experience as the central defender in a three-man backline could be an ideal fit. Amorim has acknowledged that playing in a back three suits Maguire’s style of play, and he has enjoyed success in this setup with the England team, where he has rarely let down manager Gareth Southgate.
Manchester United has a history of triggering contract options for players nearing the end of their deals in January. Even if it is simply to avoid losing their £80 million defender for nothing, it would not be surprising if the club activates Maguire’s option. This would give him time to reassess his future and potentially secure a place in Amorim’s plans for the coming years, unless a more lucrative offer emerges.
With Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans likely to depart in 2025, Manchester United may find it more practical to retain Maguire for at least one more season, particularly if they are unable to secure the defensive reinforcements they seek.
