Danilo, Kiwior, or Felipe a Fit for Transfer-Ready Napoli?

Napoli is still in the market for a proven central defender and will be willing to enter the transfer market this January. Here’s a look at the most likely candidates and what it will take to convince them to join Gli Azzurri.

Replacing Buongiorno, a Short Term Priority

Napoli’s transfer market priorities have shifted as an urgent need for a central defender emerges following recent setbacks in their squad. According to Sky Sports correspondent Francesco Modugno, the club was already exploring options to strengthen their defence, but yesterday’s injury to Alessandro Buongiorno has exacerbated the situation.

With Buongiorno sidelined for at least six weeks, Napoli has been forced to recalibrate its strategy and focus on securing not just an alternative but a starting-calibre player for the role.

“Napoli needs a ready-made, authoritative player,” Modugno explained, highlighting Napoli’s desire for experience and reliability in the heart of the defence. The club is reportedly combing through a list of potential targets assembled by sporting director Mauro Manna and coach Antonio Conte.

Among the names being evaluated is Danilo, but the player’s own intentions and opinion on the potential move remain a key factor. In the backdrop, Giacomo Raspadori is also under consideration as part of a possible exchange deal involving Juventus.

Another candidate is Polish defender Jakub Kiwior. Formerly of Spezia and currently in Arsenal’s squad, Kiwior has failed to secure a starting place in the Gunners’ line-up. The Polish defender has attracted Napoli’s interest, although Modugno notes that initial negotiations with Arsenal have stalled.

Another option being floated is former Lazio defender Luiz Felipe, currently playing for Al-Ittihad. While Felipe could represent a feasible solution for Napoli, Modugno adds that he is not presently at the top of the club’s list of priorities.

It’d been previously reported that Conte was keen on Tottenham defender Radu Drăgușin, who previously played for Genoa. However, Drăgușin’s recent upgrade to a starting player in the Spurs line-up makes a deal less feasible at this stage.

Looking ahead to Napoli’s upcoming match against Genoa, Conte is expected to rely on Juan Jesus to step in and fill the gap. As Modugno puts it, “It is the most viable solution at the moment, even if there is no shortage of alternatives.”

For Napoli, the pressure is on to find a defensive leader capable of guiding the team through this critical period. With the January transfer window approaching, all eyes are on the club’s next move to address their defensive concerns and stay competitive in the title race.

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