Napoli 'planning bid for Guillermo Varela in January'

Napoli are reportedly lining up a bid for Manchester United defender Guillermo Varela when the transfer window reopens next month.

The Uruguayan right-back, 22, joined United as David Moyes's first signing in 2013 but only earned his debut for the club in the goalless draw with West Ham United last week.

Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri is keeping "a close eye" on Varela's situation at Old Trafford with the aim of signing him in January and then sending him out on loan for the rest of the season.

After making his debut, Varela has since gone on to start for United in both the 3-2 Champions League defeat to Wolfsburg and the 2-1 league loss at Bournemouth amid a growing injury list.