Man Utd target unexpected midfielder: €24m flop is a market opportunity

Manchester United have taken a surprise interest in RB Leipzig flop Eljif Elmas, who is currently trying to revitalise his career at Napoli.

The North Macedonia international joined the Bundesliga in early 2024 for a sizeable €24 million. Elmas was a marquee signing for Leipzig at the time, but he never lived up to his price tag.

Despite starring at Napoli, the 26-year-old was unable to continue his form in Germany. He would play 22 times for Leipzig, recording just one assist – a terrible return for an attack-minded midfielder.

After just a year, it was clear that he had to leave to prevent his career from going completely off the rails. In January 2025, he left Leipzig for Serie A side Torino. Back in the more familiar surroundings of Italy, he managed to impress, scoring four times in 13 appearances.

However, the Turin club were unable to make his stay permanent in the summer. As a result, Napoli swooped to bring Elmas back to the club on an initial loan with a €16m purchase option.

Man Utd interested in Elmas

Though his return of one goal and three assists is nothing to write home about, Elmas has done enough to make Napoli consider activating their clause, with a potential view to selling him on.

He has played regularly for the Italian giants, making 36 appearances across all competitions so far. Because of his low cost, Elmas is attracting the attention of potential suitors, according to Tuttomercatoweb.

Man Utd, who are known to be keen to revamp their midfield, are said to be keeping tabs on the 26-year-old’s situation. He could be a market opportunity this summer and add midfield depth.

His versatility adds to the allure. Because of injuries to Napoli’s starting midfielders, Elmas has been deployed in various roles this season, including playing as a more defensive-minded player. He has managed to impress despite his lack of experience in a more withdrawn position.

“When you play as a defensive midfielder, you also need to defend, not just look for goals and go forward,” he explained recently. “When you change roles during the match, it’s difficult, but I’m happy that I’m doing well.”

While Elmas would not be a marquee signing for Man Utd like Elliot Anderson or Carlos Baleba, he could be a shrewd pick-up to provide adequate cover across multiple positions.

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