Napoli manager Antonio Conte has reportedly made Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho his primary transfer target for the upcoming summer window, with the Italian coach allegedly willing to pursue the Argentine “whatever the cost.”
According to reports from Calciomercato, Napoli previously submitted a €50 million (£42 million) bid for the 20-year-old in January after selling Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to Paris Saint-Germain. However, Manchester United rejected this approach as it fell significantly short of their £70 million valuation of the homegrown talent.
Napoli subsequently secured Noah Okafor on loan from AC Milan as an alternative, but the Swiss international has reportedly failed to impress Conte. With Champions League football secured for next season and the expected departure of Victor Osimhen set to boost their transfer budget, the Italian club appears ready to return with an improved offer for Garnacho.
The situation at Manchester United could potentially facilitate a deal, as new manager Ruben Amorim faces crucial decisions regarding squad rebuilding. United’s summer transfer capabilities will largely depend on whether they secure Champions League qualification through winning the Europa League, which would provide an additional £85-100 million in revenue.
Player sales, particularly of academy graduates like Garnacho whose transfers would represent pure profit on the books, could significantly enhance United’s financial flexibility under Premier League profit and sustainability rules.
While Napoli appears most determined to secure Garnacho’s signature, they face competition from several European heavyweights. Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, and Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen have all reportedly expressed interest in the talented winger who has impressed with his direct running and goal-scoring ability since breaking into United’s first team.
Despite speculation about a reduced asking price, sources close to Manchester United maintain that their £70 million valuation remains unchanged from January, reflecting the club’s high regard for the Argentina international’s potential.
