United Beyond Manchester

After failing to sign Alejandro Garnacho in January, Napoli are set to make the 20-year-old their top transfer target this summer.

According to Calciomercato, Antonio Conte is preparing for a big summer in Naples and is determined to make Garnacho his premier signing “whatever the cost.” The 55-year-old wants to compete for the Champions League and Serie A titles next season and sees Garnacho as a key player in achieving these goals.

Garnacho is seen as the ideal replacement for Kvicha Kvaratshkelia, who moved to PSG in January. Napoli attempted to sign the Argentine international after the Georgian’s departure, but their £42 million offer was far below Manchester United’s £70 million ask. To sign the winger this summer, Napoli must meet United’s demands or risk losing a transfer battle with other clubs reportedly interested.

Since debuting in the 2021-2022 season, Garnacho has been one of United’s most dynamic players. His Puskas-winning overhead kick will stand as one of the greatest Manchester United goals in Premier League history. He also memorably scored the opening goal in last season’s FA Cup Final triumph after a blunder at the back by Manchester City.

Despite a bright start to his career, Garnacho has struggled since the arrival of Ruben Amorim, as the Portuguese manager’s system does not include traditional wingers. The need for players who fit Amorim’s style makes Garnacho expendable, especially considering the FFP implications of a pure-profit sale.

If United ultimately decides to move on from Garnacho, Bayer Leverkusen, Chelsea, and Atletico Madrid could join the race to sign him. Atletico Madrid would likely have the upper hand, as Garnacho spent time in their academy and his family resides in Spain.