Harry Maguire sent clear message by McTominay regarding his future

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire is facing a defining summer after receiving a direct nudge from former team-mate Scott McTominay to consider a fresh start in Serie A with Napoli.

INEOS, the club’s new football custodians, are determined to slash a wage bill that has ballooned in recent seasons. Casemiro has already confirmed he will depart when his contract expires, and Jadon Sancho is expected to follow, yet Maguire’s situation is proving more complex. The 31-year-old centre-back is willing to remain at Old Trafford, but only if he accepts a significant pay reduction.

While Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Qadsiah are ready to sweeten any exit with a salary increase and a lucrative signing-on fee, Napoli have emerged as a serious alternative. According to The Sun, McTominay—who has quickly become a cult hero in Naples since leaving Manchester—has urged the Italian club to pursue Maguire should he become available.

The pair spent five seasons together at United, bonding during pre-season tours and maintaining a close rapport. McTominay believes the England international could replicate his own resurgence on the peninsula, and Napoli’s hierarchy are receptive to the idea.

Interest in Maguire is not new. AC Milan approached United in January, only for then-coach Michael Carrick to veto any departure. Additional Italian clubs and a handful of Premier League sides have also monitored his status, but INOS have yet to table a new deal, placing the former club captain at a crossroads.

Inside the United dressing-room, teammates view Maguire’s potential exit as a misstep, citing his defensive reliability and vocal leadership. With weeks remaining before the transfer window reopens, the decision-makers at Old Trafford must weigh the financial imperative of trimming wages against losing a player still valued within the squad.

For Maguire, the choice is stark: accept reduced terms to stay, or heed McTominay’s advice and embrace a new chapter in Naples.