Matheus Nunes could be heading for a January exit from Manchester City, with Napoli positioning themselves as frontrunners for his signature. The Portuguese international, represented by Jorge Mendes, is attracting interest from the Serie A champions, who value his ability to operate in multiple roles.
‘Buy one, get two’ – January move for Manchester City player aided by Jorge Mendes — sums up the Italian club’s stance. According to TuttoSport, Napoli view Nunes as a cost-effective reinforcement who can strengthen both defence and midfield, addressing two squad needs with one signing.
‘Buy one, get two’ – January move for Manchester City player aided by Jorge Mendes
Since joining Manchester City from Wolves in 2023, Nunes has made 77 appearances but never cemented a permanent starting role under Pep Guardiola. The 27-year-old has often been deployed at right-back rather than his natural midfield position.
So far this season, he has been left on the bench twice in the Premier League but still produced a goal and assist from five appearances across competitions. That level of output underscores his ability, but City’s stacked squad leaves him vulnerable to rotation.
Napoli, meanwhile, want competition for captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo at right-back while also bolstering central midfield depth. In Nunes, they see the perfect hybrid solution — hence the “buy one, get two” tag.
“Napoli believe Nunes’ signing can improve their options in defence and midfield — a ‘buy one, get two’ solution.” — TuttoSport (Italy)
Mendes’ influence in negotiations
The player’s agent Jorge Mendes has strong ties in Italy and is reported to be exploring avenues to secure the transfer. Napoli are no strangers to Premier League recruitment, and Mendes’ involvement could accelerate discussions once the January market opens.
Whether City are prepared to sanction a deal mid-season remains unclear, particularly as Guardiola often values depth for the second half of the campaign.
Matheus Nunes 2025/26 stats so far
| Stat (2025/26) | Matheus Nunes |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 5 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 1 |
source: sofascore match data – 29 September 2025
Though City minutes have been limited, Nunes has already delivered end product, proving his versatility and technical ability. Napoli believe that translated into Serie A, he could become a key squad piece.
Analyst verdict – John William
FootballPlace analyst John William said: “Nunes has been unlucky at City — he’s talented, but Guardiola has used him more as a utility option than a midfield starter. Napoli see that versatility as a bargain. With Jorge Mendes involved, don’t be surprised if this accelerates quickly in January.”
He added: “City may hesitate, but if Nunes pushes for more minutes and Napoli put down a serious offer, this deal makes sense for all parties.”
Key insights
- Napoli want Matheus Nunes in January as a defensive and midfield reinforcement.
- Jorge Mendes is driving talks, with the move described as “buy one, get two.”
- Nunes has 1 goal and 1 assist in 5 games this season.
- Has struggled to nail down a consistent role at Manchester City since 2023.
- City’s stance on a mid-season sale remains uncertain.
What’s next for Nunes and City?
Manchester City will evaluate their squad needs before making any January decisions. Guardiola is reluctant to weaken his depth mid-season, but Nunes’ desire for consistent playing time could push the matter.
Napoli, defending Serie A champions, will intensify efforts in the coming weeks, aiming to convince City and the player. With Mendes’ negotiation power, this transfer saga is one to watch as the winter window approaches.
👉 Should Manchester City cash in on Matheus Nunes in January — or keep him as a versatile option for Guardiola?
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