Napoli to make new Mainoo attempt if Lang leaves

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Lorenzo Bettoni | Last updated Jan 3, 2026 6:52 AM ET

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Napoli remain interested in Kobbie Mainoo, but a deal with Manchester United is possible only if Noa Lang leaves.

Napoli will be looking for midfield reinforcement in the January window, and Mainoo remains a top target for the Partenopei.

Napoli still interested in Mainoo

GRIMSBY, ENGLAND – AUGUST 27: Kobbie Mainoo of Manchester United looks on during the Carabao Cup Second Round match between Grimsby Town and Manchester United at Blundell Park on August 27, 2025 in Grimsby, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

According to Gazzetta, the defending Serie A champions will have the financial resources to try to sign Mainoo only if Lang leaves.

The Dutch winger has attracted interest from Galatasaray, and Napoli are open to discussing a sale this month as the ex-PSV star has struggled to impress in the first part of the campaign.

Lang might leave Napoli already

NAPLES, ITALY – DECEMBER 07: Noa Lang of SSC Napoli reacts during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Juventus FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on December 07, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

Lang has collected 709 minutes of football across all competitions this term, scoring one goal in 20 appearances.

During his latest interview with Corriere dello Sport, Napoli director Giovanni Manna refused to rule out Lang’s transfer, saying that the club expect more from the 26-year-old.

Napoli’s next Serie A match is away at Lazio on Sunday, January 4.

Source: Gazzetta dello Sport newspaper, January 3, 2026, page 20.

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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