Former Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay could deliver a significant transfer windfall to his old club this weekend by helping Napoli secure a place in the Champions League. Should Antonio Conte's side qualify for Europe's elite competition next season, the Italian club will be obliged to pay United £38 million for Rasmus Hojlund.
Transfer Details
Hojlund joined Napoli on loan from United last summer for a £5.2 million fee. However, the deal includes a clause that makes the transfer permanent if Napoli qualify for the Champions League. The Serie A heavyweights currently sit second in the standings with 70 points. They could seal qualification by beating Bologna on Monday night, provided Roma, in fifth place, fail to defeat Parma on Sunday.
McTominay's Impact
McTominay has been a revelation for Napoli since his arrival in the summer of 2024. Although Napoli appear set to miss out on the Serie A title to Inter Milan, the Scottish midfielder's performances have been crucial in maintaining their grip on second place. Another strong showing from him could secure European football for the Italians, triggering the £38 million payment to United.
The anticipated windfall would significantly aid United's summer rebuild, which is expected to be major and costly. With Champions League football secured, United are reportedly eyeing a priority target to replace the departing Casemiro. Candidates include Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, Brighton's Carlos Baleba, Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, West Ham's Matheus Fernandes, Bournemouth's Alex Scott, and Wolves' Joao Gomes.
Other Transfer Targets
United are also exploring a move for Aston Villa's attacking midfielder Morgan Rogers as potential cover for Bruno Fernandes, should the captain seek a move away in the coming seasons. Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni and RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande have also been linked with the club. Additionally, United are seeking a left-back this summer, with Newcastle's Lewis Hall and Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly among the names mentioned.
Hojlund's Journey
Hojlund netted 16 goals in all competitions during his debut campaign for United following his £72 million move from Atalanta. However, former manager Ruben Amorim dropped the Dane from his plans shortly afterwards, despite featuring him during pre-season. Hojlund expressed his determination to fight for his position during United's 2025 summer tour in the USA, but he was later left out of matchday squads for fixtures against Arsenal, Fulham, and Grimsby.
United made Hojlund available for sale after acquiring Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig for £73 million in August. Hojlund, who has scored 14 times for Napoli this season, reflected on his exit in March, saying: "I got what I wanted with my transfer. I got a team that believes in me a lot. A club that believes in me a lot. A sporting director, a president, and a coach who wants me. It felt like it was over for me at one point at United. Here at Napoli, I've rediscovered my love for football. People even back in Denmark were writing me off, but I never stopped believing."
