Not as obvious a manoeuvre and chance of success with Lisandro Martinez as with Scott McTominay, but it is conceivable that those responsible at Napoli see something we in Sporten.com do not.
The Argentine defender has made a clear decision about his future at Manchester United, while Napoli were hoping to repeat the success of Scott McTominay’s transfer last year.
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Martinez, 27, joined United from Ajax three years ago but has struggled with injuries since his arrival. After an impressive debut season, he missed much of the following campaign with a foot injury, before a cruciate ligament injury in February sidelined him again.
Despite interest from Napoli, Martinez has reportedly rejected a summer transfer, according to MailSport.
Napoli wanted new United player after McTominay success
Napoli have reportedly considered a new United player following their success with Scott McTominay, who was named Serie A’s Most Valuable Player last year. The Scottish midfielder helped secure the title with a spectacular volley on the final day of the season.
Martinez has not played since suffering a cruciate ligament rupture in United’s 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace on February 2. He is expected to be ready for a comeback in September, and according to MailSport, his rehabilitation is on track.
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Will fight for the place – despite the lack of European football
The centre-back is said to be determined to stay at United, even if the club did not qualify for European football next season. Once he is injury-free, he will give new manager Rúben Amorim an option on the left side of a three-back line.
But Martinez could face stiff competition for the spot, with both Ayden Heaven and Luke Shaw lining up to secure a starting spot.
Why is Napoli interested in United players?
It has been reported that United are open to player sales this summer as they reshape their squad to suit Amorim’s style of play.
Last year, United sold McTominay to Napoli for £25 million under pressure to comply with the Premier League’s financial rules (PSR) – a transfer that proved to be a huge success. McTominay flourished under Antonio Conte, with 12 goals in 34 Serie A games, and became the league’s all-time leading midfielder.
Napoli have also shown interest in Argentine winger Alejandro Garnacho, who has reportedly been told that he could apply for a new club. United value the 20-year-old at around £50 million.
After being dropped from the starting eleven in the Europa League final, Garnacho has reportedly been told to find a new club – despite scoring in the FA Cup final just over a year ago. Napoli were linked with him already in January, and it remains to be seen if they will renew their interest this summer.
