Fabrizio Romano: Scott McTominay Demanding “Payoff” for Manchester United Departure

Fabrizio Romano: Scott McTominay Demanding “Payoff” for Manchester United Departure

Scott McTominay is edging closer to a transfer to Napoli for €30 million, but according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the finalization of the deal hinges on negotiating a “payoff” with Manchester United.

The 27-year-old midfielder has been a target for multiple European clubs this summer, with United open to selling him to fund further acquisitions. Despite Erik ten Hag’s admiration for McTominay and his potential role at Old Trafford, the club acknowledges the financial benefits of his departure. McTominay’s homegrown status means his sale would count as ‘pure profit’ under financial fair play regulations.

Napoli and Manchester United have reportedly reached an agreement on a €30 million transfer fee, including a sell-on clause. McTominay has expressed his eagerness to join Napoli and work under manager Antonio Conte, and it is believed he could travel to Italy next week for a medical, possibly as early as Tuesday.

However, the deal’s completion depends on resolving the financial payoff McTominay is seeking, a situation reminiscent of recent high-profile transfers involving United. For instance, Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s move to West Ham was nearly derailed by his demand for a £7 million payoff, while a similar scenario last year saw Harry Maguire’s move to West Ham collapse over conflicting payoff expectations.

Romano highlighted that, while discussions over McTominay’s payoff are ongoing, there is no immediate indication that they will obstruct his transfer to Napoli. This situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Manchester United under the Glazers’ ownership, which INEOS, now fully in charge of football operations at Old Trafford, has been working to address throughout the summer.