Manchester United Misfit Marouane Fellaini Says Yes to Napoli Move

Marouane Fellaini has told Napoli he wants to leave Manchester United and join the Serie A giants, reports in Italy claim.

Fellaini, 26, became the fourth most expensive signing in the club's history when he joined for £27m last summer in a move that has since been recognised as an aberration after a disastrous first season at Old Trafford.

United are prepared to make a loss on the former Everton midfielder having entered discussions with Napoli, and Italian daily Corriere dello Sport carry a story on their front page suggesting the Belgian international has agreed in principle to join Rafa Benitez's side.

The report suggests United will listen to offers of €19m for the much-maligned midfielder although Napoli remain hopeful of securing him on a season long loan for a fee of €3m.

Such claims follow reports from Naples-based Il Mattino that Fellaini's representatives held talks with Napoli sporting director Riccardo Bigon over the weekend, in the hope of securing a move away from Old Trafford.

Fellaini floundered during his first season at United, suffering a string of injuries and failing to score a single goal in all competitions. His performances against United's major rivals were of particular concern and it remains to be seen what role Louis van Gaal envisages for the Belgian.

United are still expected to add another midfielder to their ranks whatever happens to Fellaini in the coming weeks. Ander Herrera has impressed in the heart of midfield in his early showings but injury to Michael Carrick and the lack of quality in other options suggest the club will be in the market, with Arturo Vidal and Kevin Strootman persistently linked with summer moves.

While van Gaal has remained silent on the pursuit of a midfielder, he has acknowledged the club's need for another centre half.

Youngsters Michael Keane and Tyler Blackett have both featured alongside the first choice trio of Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Jonny Evans during the club's tour of the US, but the Dutchman has his eye on further reinforcements.

"I am looking at the defenders we have first," van Gaal said after United's 5-3 penalty shootout victory over Inter. "And, when you see our three matches, we are doing well, I think. But it is right that we are looking for a defender, because a lot of defenders have gone.

"We have to replace them but I also like Michael Keane and Tyler Blackett."