When Scott McTominay soared into the air at Hampden Park on November 19, 2025, and smashed home that breathtaking overhead kick against Denmark, he didn’t just secure Scotland’s first World Cup appearance since 1998 — he lit a fire under four Premier League giants. Now, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Everton are all locked in a frantic race to sign the 28-year-old Scottish midfielder from Società Sportiva Calcio Napoli, with a staggering €80 million price tag standing in their way.
The Price Tag That’s Stopping Everyone
Napoli aren’t bluffing. Despite McTominay’s contract running until 2028, the Italian club has made it clear: no deal under €80 million — or roughly £70 million — is even worth discussing. That’s more than double what they paid for him in the summer of 2024, when they brought him in from Manchester United for €30 million. But here’s the twist: McTominay hasn’t just been good since arriving in Naples. He’s been extraordinary. In 50 appearances, he’s netted 17 goals. He won Serie A’s MVP award last season as Napoli lifted the Scudetto. And his engine? Relentless. His aerial dominance? Unmatched. As The Hard Tackle put it, he’s become “one of the best midfielders in the world.”Who’s Really Interested — And Why
Tottenham Hotspur moved first. Their manager, Ange Postecoglou, reportedly reached out to McTominay’s agent within days of Scotland’s World Cup qualification. Spurs are thin in central midfield after Rodrigo Bentancur’s injury woes and the aging presence of Yves Bissouma. McTominay’s box-to-box energy could be the missing piece. Arsenal are quieter but no less serious. Manager Mikel Arteta has been “sounding out” options, according to Sportsmole. With Declan Rice playing deeper and Martin Ødegaard drifting wide, Arteta needs a pure No. 6 — someone who can shield the backline and still arrive late in the box. McTominay fits that mold perfectly. Then there’s Manchester United. The club that raised him. The one he joined at age 12. The one he never left until last summer. Reports confirm they’ve already held talks with his camp. And McTominay? He’s openly admitted he’d love to return to Old Trafford. But here’s the catch: he won’t go back just for nostalgia. “He’ll only push to leave Napoli for the right project,” said The Hard Tackle. That means United need to convince him they’re rebuilding, not just spending. And Everton? They’re the wild card. After a dismal start to the season, with just three wins in 15 league games, they’re desperate. Bringing in a proven star like McTominay could instantly transform their identity — from relegation battlers to dangerous counter-attacking side. But can they afford it? Even if they could, would the Premier League’s financial fair play rules allow it? The answer isn’t clear.
A Scottish Hero on the World Stage
McTominay’s impact isn’t just club-level. His goal against Denmark wasn’t just a goal — it was a moment. A 28-year-old kid from Glasgow, once written off as too slow, too raw, now the man who got Scotland back to the World Cup for the first time in 28 years. That goal, a perfectly timed bicycle kick that left Denmark’s keeper rooted, went viral in seconds. Fans in Glasgow wept. In Naples, they cheered louder than ever. And in Manchester, old United supporters whispered: “He always had it in him.” His versatility is another selling point. He plays central midfield, defensive midfield, even right-back when needed. “He’s done a great job in every position,” noted The Hard Tackle. That adaptability makes him a coach’s dream — and a club’s dream when budgets are tight.What Happens Next?
The January 2026 transfer window is the only realistic window. Napoli won’t sell in summer — they’re defending their title and need him for the Champions League. But January? That’s when cash-strapped clubs panic. And McTominay’s agent knows it. They’ll wait. They’ll let the bids pile up. They’ll see who blinks first. The Scottish national team, governed by the Scottish Football Association, will find out their World Cup group on December 5, 2025. McTominay will be their talisman. And if he leads them past the group stage? His market value could climb even higher.
The Bigger Picture
This isn’t just about one player. It’s about how the Premier League’s wealth gap is reshaping the transfer market. Napoli, once a club that sold stars to survive, is now holding firm. They’re no longer selling to rebuild — they’re selling to dominate. And clubs like Everton, who can’t match Napoli’s price, are left chasing ghosts. Meanwhile, Manchester United’s return to relevance hinges on decisions like this. Can they lure back a homegrown hero who’s now a global star? Or will they be outbid by the likes of Spurs and Arsenal, who’ve spent smarter and faster? One thing’s certain: McTominay isn’t just a player anymore. He’s a symbol. Of redemption. Of growth. Of what happens when you keep grinding — even when everyone writes you off.Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Napoli demanding €80 million for McTominay when they only paid €30 million for him?
Napoli’s valuation reflects McTominay’s explosive rise since joining in 2024. He’s scored 17 goals in 50 appearances, won Serie A’s MVP award, and led Scotland to World Cup qualification. His market value has nearly tripled due to elite performances in both club and international football, making him a rare dual-threat midfielder. Napoli, now financially stable after their 2023–24 Scudetto win, are no longer desperate sellers.
Could Everton realistically afford McTominay’s €80 million fee?
It’s highly unlikely. Everton’s 2024–25 financial report showed a net loss of £45 million, and Premier League FFP rules limit how much clubs can spend above their revenue. Even if they sold key players, raising €80 million would require selling multiple starters and possibly violating financial regulations. Their interest is more about leverage than genuine intent — they’re likely testing Napoli’s resolve.
Why is Manchester United the sentimental favorite despite not leading the chase?
McTominay spent his entire professional career at United, joining their academy at 12 and playing 287 games over 15 years. He’s a homegrown product who embodies the club’s traditional values. While Spurs and Arsenal have moved faster, United’s emotional connection with McTominay — and his stated desire to return — makes them the most compelling narrative. But sentiment doesn’t pay bills; a winning project does.
How might McTominay’s World Cup performance affect his transfer value?
If Scotland advances beyond the group stage in the 2026 World Cup, McTominay’s profile could surge globally. A standout performance against Brazil or Portugal would make him a household name beyond Europe, potentially triggering bids from MLS or Saudi clubs — giving Napoli even more leverage. Even reaching the Round of 16 could push his value toward €100 million.
Is there a chance McTominay stays at Napoli until 2028?
Yes — and it’s increasingly plausible. Napoli have made it clear they see him as core to their future. If no club meets their €80 million demand by January, and McTominay doesn’t feel the project is right, he may stay. He’s already expressed satisfaction with Napoli’s structure and ambitions. Sometimes, loyalty and stability beat money.
