Serie A giants Napoli have identified Manchester United defender Harry Maguire as an attractive option on a free transfer, according to The Athletic.
The centre-back has been in-and-out of the starting XI for United over the past two years, but he recently confirmed that talks are ongoing over a renewal.
His current deal expires at the end of June next year and as things stand, the Red Devils have the option to extend his £190,000 per week contract for 12 months.
United are looking into a longer contract for Maguire on possibly lesser wages, but the club have just 10 days before he can discuss terms with foreign clubs.
Napoli have identified the 31-year-old as an attractive free transfer option following the success of former United teammate Scott McTominay after his summer move.
Manager Antonio Conte is fond of recruiting Premier League-based players and the Italian heavyweights are open to the possibility of bringing Maguire to Serie A.
The Athletic claim that United need to find a solution by the end of the year or they could risk losing Maguire's services on a Bosman deal to a foreign side.
If United were to trigger the clause after Maguire's agreement with another club, it is suggested that FIFA are most likely to favour the player in such a dispute.
The former United captain recently came up with a strong performance against Manchester City in the Premier League. He comfortably saw off the threat of Erling Haaland.
Shortly after the game, Maguire confirmed 'positive talks' over a renewal with United and his representative could be putting pressure on the club to make a quick decision.
Napoli have probably communicated their interest to his agent. This is now being used as a negotiation tool to speed up contract talks with the Red Devils this month.
In our view, Maguire is no longer in the prime of his playing career. He won't be a regular starter in future and United should not agree a new deal on similar wage terms.
Unless he is prepared to accept around £100,000 per week, we believe United should release him on a free transfer. They should avoid triggering the extension clause.