Napoli director Giovanni Manna has admitted that Alejandro Garnacho’s financial demands played a significant role in the collapse of his potential move from Manchester United in January. The Serie A club had identified the young winger as a top target following Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s unexpected transfer to Paris Saint-Germain early in the window. While Napoli and United engaged in negotiations, a deal ultimately failed to materialize due to both the transfer fee and Garnacho’s salary expectations.
Speaking about the situation, Manna revealed that Napoli made a substantial offer and came close to matching United’s valuation, which was reported to be between £50m and £70m. However, the player’s wage demands were a sticking point. “Garnacho is a player we like, and we made an important offer. But to leave the Premier League in January, the player wanted to be satisfied financially, and that is not something we could do,” Manna explained. He added that maintaining wage balance within the squad was a priority for the club.
Garnacho’s situation at United had been uncertain, especially after he was dropped in December by manager Ruben Amorim, alongside Marcus Rashford, for the Manchester derby. However, the Argentine winger responded well to the setback, earning his place back in the team and impressing with his performances in January. Amorim, who was also keen to keep the 19-year-old despite Chelsea’s interest, ensured he played regularly, starting four games that month.
While United did not actively push to sell Garnacho, reports suggest they remain open to offers in the right price range. The club faces financial pressures and is expected to make significant changes to the squad in the summer transfer window. Garnacho’s future at Old Trafford may still be uncertain, but for now, he remains a key part of Amorim’s plans.