Napoli's shifting strategy: Lucca in, Nunez out, funds freed...
Napoli has pivoted their transfer strategy, confirming their move for Udinese's Lorenzo Lucca after deeming Darwin Nunez too expensive. This decision frees up significant funds, allowing the Scudetto holders to intensify their pursuit of Torino goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic and prioritize an improved offer for Bologna winger Dan Ndoye, reshaping their summer recruitment drive.
Napoli has made a decisive shift in their summer transfer strategy, opting to pursue Lorenzo Lucca from Udinese after deeming primary target Darwin Nunez simply too expensive. This change of plans has, in turn, liberated additional funds, allowing the reigning Serie A champions to redirect their investment towards other key reinforcements, specifically targeting goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic and winger Dan Ndoye.
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As Football Italia reported on May 8, Lucca was always considered "Plan B" if a deal for Nunez proved unattainable. For over two months, the Partenopei diligently explored the feasibility of acquiring their top target, even submitting proposals close to €50 million. However, Liverpool's firm stance and "intransigence" ultimately forced Napoli to alter their initial strategy.
Lucca's arrival paves way for further investment
Unless an unforeseen circumstance derails the deal, Napoli is now set to secure Lucca. The cost for the Italy international is expected to be under €40 million. This more manageable fee will enable the club to strategically reallocate the remaining budget to bolster other crucial areas of the squad.
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The immediate focus following Lucca's impending arrival will be on strengthening the goalkeeping position. Torino's Vanja Milinkovic-Savic has emerged as the prime target for this role. Concurrently, Napoli is also determined to enhance their wide attacking options. Their offer to Bologna for winger Dan Ndoye must be improved to secure his services.
While Napoli had recently evaluated other wing targets, including Lazio's Mattia Zaccagni and Atalanta's Ademola Lookman, the arrival of Noa Lang for his medical from PSV Eindhoven appears to have solidified Ndoye's position as Antonio Conte's favored choice for the wing, complementing the incoming talent. This recalibrated approach highlights Napoli's disciplined and strategic method to reinforce their squad, ensuring they remain competitive at the highest level despite missing out on their initial top target.
