Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour Join Napoli

Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour have finalized their signings with Napoli. McTominay, 27, has joined Napoli from Manchester United for £25.7 million. He spent his entire career at United, having joined the club’s soccer school at age five. Over his career, McTominay made 255 appearances and scored 10 goals in 43 matches last season. With the arrival of Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain, McTominay’s playing time at United was expected to diminish.

In a heartfelt farewell, Scott McTominay expressed his gratitude for his time at Old Trafford and his eagerness for the new challenge at Napoli. Billy Gilmour, 23, has moved from Brighton to Napoli for an initial £12 million with potential add-ons of up to £4 million. Gilmour joined Brighton from Chelsea in 2022 and made 60 appearances for the Seagulls. The transfer was delayed due to an injury to Brighton’s new midfield signing, Matt O’Riley.

Napoli’s manager, Antonio Conte played a significant role in Gilmour’s move. Although Gilmour debuted at Brighton after Conte’s departure from Chelsea, he had been part of the youth teams during Conte’s tenure. Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag expressed mixed feelings about McTominay’s departure. He acknowledged the transfer’s benefits for United, including increased flexibility under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules.

However, he admitted reluctance to lose such a key player. Ten Hag emphasized McTominay’s importance to the team and the challenges of adhering to financial regulations. Napoli have also bolstered their squad by signing striker Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea. Gilmour’s move reunites him with Conte, who previously managed him at Chelsea, adding to Napoli’s summer reinforcements.

Brighton’s manager, Fabian Hurzeler, wished Gilmour well, noting his professionalism and contributions during their brief time together.