North London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have discovered they must prepare astronomical bids if they hope to secure the sensational return of Scott McTominay from Napoli in the January transfer window.
The Transfer Battle Heating Up
Just days before Sunday's highly anticipated North London Derby at the Emirates Stadium, both clubs have been linked with a major off-pitch confrontation to sign the Scotland international, who has become one of Europe's most sought-after midfielders.
The timing adds extra spice to this weekend's clash, where Arsenal aim to maintain their four-point lead at the Premier League summit against a Tottenham side desperate to close the gap on their local rivals under manager Thomas Frank.
Napoli's Staggering Financial Demands
According to reports from TEAMtalk, both north London clubs have joined the growing list of admirers for the 28-year-old midfielder, who left Manchester United for Napoli in a £25 million deal last summer after spending 22 years at Old Trafford.
Since moving to Italy, McTominay's transformation has been remarkable. The Scottish star scored crucial goals in Napoli's Scudetto-winning campaign and was named Serie A's MVP for the 2024/25 season.
However, any hopes of a quick return to English football face significant financial barriers. Sources indicate that any bid below €80 million (£70.5 million) would be immediately rejected by Napoli's board, with the Italian champions determined to keep their prized asset.
McTominay's Career-Defining Moment
The midfielder's reputation reached new heights this week when he scored a spectacular bicycle kick for Scotland in their 4-2 victory over Denmark at Hampden Park, securing the national team's first World Cup qualification since 1998.
This international heroics complement his impressive club form, where he has netted 17 goals for Napoli in just over twelve months, establishing himself as a key figure for both club and country.
A source close to the player revealed: "Scott's heart still beats for the Premier League. But it has to be right – the right club, the right project, the right role. He's not chasing a paycheque; he's building a legacy."
Meanwhile, Napoli insiders remain confident of retaining their star, with one source stating: "We're building something special here. Scott's thriving – why would they disrupt that?"
With Arsenal, Tottenham, Everton and even a nostalgic Manchester United reportedly making enquiries, the January transfer window promises significant drama as English clubs test Napoli's resolve with what would need to be perfect proposals to secure McTominay's signature.
