Scott McTominay’s Napoli future in focus amid Premier League and Real Madrid links
Scott McTominay’s future at Napoli could become a major issue in 2027, with the Scotland international entering the final 18 months of his contract after turning his career around in Serie A. The 29-year-old has returned to form in the 2026-27 campaign following treatment for an irregular heartbeat, while renewed speculation has linked him with Spain and a possible return to England.
Napoli move transformed McTominay’s role
McTominay ended his long association with Manchester United in the summer of 2024, completing a £26 million ($35m) transfer to Napoli. At Old Trafford, he had often been used in deeper midfield positions and struggled to establish one settled role.
Napoli offered him greater licence to attack, allowing him to develop as a box-to-box presence rather than a holding midfielder. That change produced immediate results.
- McTominay won the Serie A title in his first season in Naples.
- He was named the league’s MVP during that title-winning campaign.
- His best single-season scoring return rose from 13 goals to 14.
- He placed 18th in the 2025 Ballon d’Or vote.
- Napoli supporters have also embraced his partner, Cam Reading, known locally as the “Queen of Italy”.
United have faced repeated criticism for allowing a home-grown player to leave, particularly given the club’s wider inconsistency. Questions have also been raised over whether they failed to recognise the attacking and all-round qualities he has shown in Italy.
Contract situation opens transfer debate
With no extension yet agreed, Napoli will soon face a decision over McTominay’s future. They can seek a transfer fee before his deal runs down or retain a player who has become central to their recent success.
Barcelona have previously been mentioned as potential admirers. Reports have also suggested that clubs in Madrid are monitoring the situation, with Real Madrid coach José Mourinho notable as the manager credited with giving McTominay his breakthrough opportunity in Manchester.
A move back to the Premier League has also been discussed, although McTominay has not indicated that he is looking to leave Naples. Having represented Scotland at the World Cup and then undergone a procedure to correct his heart-rhythm issue, his attention remains on the current season.
Nevin sees a player suited to almost any side
Former Scotland winger Pat Nevin believes the midfielder’s versatility ensures that he will have options if Napoli and McTominay do not agree fresh terms.
- Nevin said he still cannot understand why Manchester United sanctioned the sale.
- He argued that Scotland had helped reveal McTominay’s full potential, which United had not fully utilised.
- He believes Napoli could keep the player, while saying leading Italian clubs would be interested if he became available.
- Nevin also suggested that McTominay has the quality to take a further step up, with teams across Europe likely to consider him.
Nevin described McTominay as a player capable of operating as a No. 10, No. 6, No. 8 or even at centre-back, effectively offering several roles within one squad place. In his view, that adaptability means the Scot could play wherever a manager needs him.
A final major decision may be approaching
McTominay is approaching the stage of his career where a further transfer could be his last major move. Napoli remains a realistic long-term home after his rapid rise in Italy, but La Liga interest and the prospect of returning to English football ensure that the question will not disappear as the 2027 windows approach.
For now, Napoli have a fit and productive midfielder back in action after his health setback. Their next challenge will be convincing one of Serie A’s most improved players that his best years should continue at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
