While José Mourinho spoke this Friday morning to come to the aid of Kylian Mbappé, the Spanish press for its part sent a new transfer window rumor. Indeed, Real Madrid have reportedly started to inquire about Scott McTominay, the Naples midfielder who has established himself as one of the revelations of Italian football in recent weeks. According to information relayed by Marca and several Italian media, the Madrid club would be closely interested in the situation of the Scottish international, whose future could depend on the negotiations around his contract. According to Il MattinoReal would have even sounded out the player’s entourage while discussions for an extension in Naples were at a standstill.
An intriguing avenue, which could gain momentum if no agreement is found between the midfielder and the Italian club. Nicknamed “the Scottish Maradona”McTominay has changed dimensions since arriving at Naples in the summer of 2024, after leaving Manchester United. In Italy, the 29-year-old midfielder revealed remarkable offensive efficiency, to the point of becoming a major element of his team and being rewarded for his performances in Serie A. His goals, his physical impact and his ability to project himself forward would therefore have attracted Real Madrid, always attentive to profiles capable of providing new solutions in the midfield.
Mourinho as an X factor?
Note also that behind this possible operation hides a personal link which could weigh in the balance: the one which unites McTominay and José Mourinho. As a reminder, the Portuguese technician had launched the Scot at Manchester United and maintained a special relationship with him. Mourinho called him affectionately “my boy”a nickname testifying to the confidence placed in the player in his early days. In an interview reported by Corriere della SeraMcTominay, for his part, admitted that he would seriously consider a proposal from Real Madrid if it came from his former coach.
A statement which gives an additional dimension to this transfer rumor, although the file is still far from being completed. Under contract with Naples until 2028, McTominay is, at the time of writing, an executive of the Neapolitan squad and the Italian club has no reason to facilitate his departure. One thing is certain, the Merengues seem determined to launch an offensive and should, according to The Suntake action during the next winter transfer window. A big move in preparation which could, at the same time, allow Casa Blanca to regain this balance in the midfield.
