Napoli are steering clear of the hefty price tags slapped on Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, and Jack Grealish by Manchester United and Manchester City, pivoting instead to a more budget-friendly option in their pursuit of attacking reinforcements.
The Serie A champions are now deep in negotiations with PSV Eindhoven for Dutch winger Noa Lang, as reported by Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio. Talks are reportedly advancing swiftly, with both clubs optimistic about striking a deal soon. Personal terms with Lang have already been agreed, leaving only the finer details of the transfer fee to be ironed out.
Napoli’s Shift in Strategy
Napoli had initially expressed interest in Sancho and Garnacho from United, as well as Grealish from City, but found the Premier League giants’ valuations prohibitive. The Italian champions quickly recalibrated their plans, zeroing in on Lang as a financially viable alternative to reinforce their left flank.
Lang, 26, enjoyed a standout 2024/25 season with PSV, delivering 11 goals and 10 assists in 29 Eredivisie appearances. His impact wasn’t confined to domestic competitions either—he shone in the Champions League, netting twice (against Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain) and providing two assists in 10 matches. These performances have made him an attractive prospect for Napoli as they aim to defend their Serie A title.
A Perfect Fit for Napoli
Lang’s versatility and attacking flair make him an ideal candidate for Napoli’s system. Capable of playing off the left, cutting inside on his stronger right foot, and contributing both goals and assists, he ticks the boxes for what the Italian side needs to bolster their frontline. His arrival could fill the void left by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who has been the subject of intense transfer speculation.
A Missed Opportunity for Manchester Clubs
For United and City, Napoli’s decision to look elsewhere is a stark reminder of the challenges of offloading players deemed surplus to requirements. Garnacho, priced at £70 million, has yet to justify such a valuation, while Grealish’s £50 million tag has proven equally off-putting for potential suitors. Sancho, who struggled during his loan spell at Chelsea last season, remains a financial burden for United, who are reportedly seeking £25 million for the 25-year-old.
This transfer saga highlights the growing disparity between Premier League valuations and the budgets of top European clubs. Napoli’s pragmatic approach signals a shrewdness in navigating the transfer market, prioritizing value over prestige.
What’s Next for Napoli?
With personal terms already agreed, all that remains is for Napoli and PSV to finalize the fee. Lang’s arrival would mark a significant coup for the Italian champions as they prepare for another grueling campaign both domestically and in Europe.
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