Napoli Set to Land De Bruyne as Conte Quashes Exit Rumors

Napoli, the reigning Serie A champions, are on the verge of signing Kevin De Bruyne as a free agent, with the Belgian midfielder set to join Romelu Lukaku, Scott McTominay, and Billy Gilmour in Italy’s top flight.

Sporting director Giovanni Manna confirmed that De Bruyne is “pretty close” to making the move from Manchester City, where he spent a decade winning six Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League.

De Bruyne, 33, will work under coach Antonio Conte, who has quashed speculation about his future by agreeing to a contract extension until 2027.

Conte had been linked with a return to Juventus, but Napoli’s president Aurelio De Laurentiis reportedly met with him to offer improved terms, including significant transfer funds.

According to Corriere dello Sport, De Laurentiis promised a €200 million transfer fund to bolster the squad, alongside the potential signings of De Bruyne and Jonathan David from Lille.

“We have a contract and seeing as we have a shared vision, we don’t have anything else to add. We’re moving forward because we’re serious people,” Conte told Sky Sport, emphasizing his commitment to the club.

Since taking charge, Conte has transformed Napoli, guiding them to the Scudetto after a disastrous 10th-place finish in the 2023 season. He has also gotten the best out of his players, particularly Romelu Lukaku and Scott McTominay, who have thrived under his leadership.

“At the end of every season coach and club always get together to assess the past season, to see if there is a shared vision and if there is still desire to continue towards certain goals,” Conte added.

With De Bruyne’s potential signing, Napoli could strengthen their squad for the upcoming season, with Conte eyeing a successful Champions League campaign.

VANGUARD