Napoli are reportedly ready to make a move for Manchester United attacker Alejandro Garnacho, with the Italian outfit searching for a replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
The Serie A club's head coach Antonio Conte has revealed that Kvaratskhelia has asked to leave before the end of the January transfer window, and Paris Saint-Germain are the heavy favourites to secure his signature.
Marcus Rashford has since been linked with a move to Naples, but according to Sportitalia, Conte has told senior figures at the club that he wants to bring in Garnacho before the end of the winter market.
The report claims that there has already been 'open contact' with Man United, as the Italian side look to complete what would be a sensational move for the Argentina international in the middle of the campaign.
The 20-year-old is Man United's leading goalscorer this season, finding the back of the net on eight occasions in 29 appearances, in addition to registering four assists.
However, he is currently finding it difficult to secure a spot in Ruben Amorim's first XI, with the new Man United head coach preferring number 10s who play inside, while Garnacho's best work often comes in wide positions.
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Napoli 'make contact' over potential Garnacho move
Garnacho only has three goals and one assist in 19 Premier League appearances this season, and he has not been in the starting XI for a match in England's top flight since the start of December.
Each of the forward's last league outings have come off the bench, and there has recently been speculation surrounding his future due to Man United's financial situation.
Genuine offers for the attacker would allegedly be considered by Man United, with a valuation of around €50m (£42m) set, and Napoli are thought to be willing to meet that figure this month.
Garnacho has made 115 appearances for the Red Devils in all competitions, scoring 23 goals and registering 13 assists in the process, but his future is certainly in doubt under Amorim.
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Man United 'not actively looking to sell Garnacho'
Despite the speculation, it is understood that Man United are not actively looking for a Garnacho sale, but if a suitable offer arrives, then it would have to be considered due to the financial restrictions currently in place.
Man United are in a strong position to negotiate considering that the youngster has a contract at Old Trafford until June 2028, having signed a new long-term deal in April 2023.
Napoli cannot afford to sign Garnacho without a major sale, but if Kvaratskhelia does depart in the near future, then funds would immediately be available for the Italian team to bring in a replacement.
A sale would also open the door for Man United to boost their squad before the end of the winter market, with PSG duo Nuno Mendes and Randal Kolo Muani both believed to be wanted by the 20-time English champions.
Matt Law
