Scott McTominay’s World Cup may have ended in disappointment, but the Scotland midfielder has quickly become the centre of one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer.
Just days after Scotland’s group-stage exit, fresh reports have linked the Napoli star with a sensational move to Real Madrid in a deal that could be worth as much as £80 million.
Mourinho Wants Reunion
According to reports from Italy and Spain, new Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is keen to reunite with the midfielder he handed a senior debut to at Manchester United.
Mourinho has long been an admirer of McTominay, regularly praising his professionalism, leadership and versatility during their time together at Old Trafford.
Now, the Portuguese boss reportedly believes the Scotland international could be the perfect addition to his midfield rebuild at the Santiago Bernabéu.
McTominay’s Rise at Napoli
Since joining Napoli from Manchester United in 2024, McTominay has developed into one of Europe’s most complete midfielders.
The 29-year-old helped Napoli win the Serie A title in his first season, was named the league’s Most Valuable Player and established himself as one of the club’s standout performers.
Across two seasons in Italy, he has scored 27 goals and registered 10 assists in 80 appearances, attracting interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Napoli Reluctant to Sell
Napoli are understood to have no desire to lose one of their key players.
Reports claim the Italian side value McTominay at around £80 million and remain in discussions over a new long-term contract.
However, with negotiations yet to reach a breakthrough, speculation over his future continues to grow.
Manchester United Could Benefit
Any transfer would also provide Manchester United with a financial boost.
The Premier League club reportedly inserted a 10 per cent sell-on clause when McTominay joined Napoli, meaning they would receive a significant share of any future transfer fee if Real Madrid complete the deal.
World Cup Exit Hasn’t Hurt His Reputation
Although Scotland failed to reach the knockout stages of the World Cup, McTominay remained one of Steve Clarke’s most influential players throughout the tournament.
His performances have done little to cool transfer interest, with Europe’s elite continuing to monitor his situation ahead of what could become one of the biggest deals of the transfer window.
The Bottom Line
Scott McTominay’s World Cup campaign may be over, but his summer is only just beginning.
With Jose Mourinho reportedly pushing for a reunion at Real Madrid and Napoli determined to keep hold of their midfield star, the coming weeks could decide whether one of Scotland’s biggest names is about to complete the biggest transfer of his career.
