Tottenham Hotspur have been made fully aware that any attempt to sign Scott McTominay in January will be extremely difficult, as Napoli have no intention of letting their star midfielder leave midway through the season.
McTominay has become one of the most important players in Antonio Conte’s squad since joining the Italian champions from Manchester United in the summer of 2024. His move to Serie A transformed his career, and he quickly established himself as one of the standout performers in the league.
Last season, the Scottish midfielder played a huge role in Napoli’s title win, adding power, drive and goals from midfield in a way few expected. His improvement was so impressive that he ended the campaign by winning the league’s Most Valuable Player award, a recognition that highlights his influence on the club’s success.
Because of this, Tottenham’s interest does not come as a surprise. Thomas Frank wants more presence and energy in midfield, and McTominay fits the profile perfectly as Spurs aim to secure a Champions League place for next season.
However, despite Spurs identifying him as a key target, Napoli’s position is clear. As revealed earlier this month, the Italian side will demand an extremely high fee for the 28-year-old due to his contract length, his importance to the team and the fact that they have absolutely no desire to break up their midfield mid-season.
McTominay’s stock rise in recent weeks makes Napoli’s stance even stronger. His overhead kick for Scotland in the 4-2 win over Denmark helped secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup, and the goal immediately went viral. Performances like that only strengthen Napoli’s belief that selling him in January would be a huge mistake.
Insiders close to the situation believe that a winter move is almost impossible. McTominay has become a cornerstone of Conte’s system, scoring 12 league goals last season and continuing that form with four goals and an assist this campaign.
His transformation since leaving Manchester United has been remarkable, and many supporters in England now question why his former club ever let him go. His confidence has soared, his leadership has grown and he has shown a level of maturity and consistency that makes him almost irreplaceable for Napoli.
Tottenham’s interest is logical. They want more dynamism in midfield, more goals from deep positions and more physical presence. McTominay offers all of that, but breaking Napoli’s resolve in January looks highly unlikely.
A summer pursuit may be more realistic, but for now Spurs will have to look elsewhere for reinforcements.
With McTominay expected to stay in Italy until at least the end of the season, Tottenham have shifted their attention to other creative options. One player firmly on their radar is Maghnes Akliouche of AS Monaco.
The 23-year-old is emerging as one of the most exciting young playmakers in Europe and recently scored his first senior goal for the French national team.
His form this season for Monaco has been impressive, with three goals and three assists in 15 appearances, and he has quickly attracted interest from several top clubs.
Tottenham were first linked with Akliouche back in August, and the interest has only grown stronger as the season has progressed. Spurs believe he could add flair, creativity and progression to a midfield that has sometimes struggled to break down compact defences.
With the club’s style under Thomas Frank being more cautious than fans expected, an attacking addition like Akliouche could help restore some spark to the side.
Reports suggest that an offer of more than £47 million could be enough to convince Monaco to sell, making him a more realistic January signing than McTominay.
Tottenham have made a promising start to the season, but the club recognises the need to strengthen the midfield if they want to remain competitive throughout the campaign.
While McTominay may be out of reach for now, Spurs are actively exploring other avenues, and their pursuit of fresh attacking and midfield talent will continue into the new year.
