Napoli Attempting to Lure Bayern Munich Stalwart

Napoli have been linked to a few midfielders, but Antonio Conte prefers Leon Goretzka out of the lot, as he’d like to bring another proven champion to Campania. The Partenopei have been in touch to discuss a Bosman transfer, as his contract is up at the end of the season, Tuttomercatoweb reports.

If the negotiation goes well and they strike a deal on personal terms, the Azzurri will kick the tires on adding him during the winter already. On the other hand, he’s often starting despite his uncertain future, and Bayern Munich would rather not touch their squad. The 30-year-old has starred 23 times so far. He’s been in Bavaria since 2018 after joining from Schalke 04 and has made nearly 300 appearances with the club, notching 46 goals and 48 assists.

Napoli have better chances of onboarding Goretzka in the summer rather than mid-season, but they’ll try. Their pursuit of Kobbie Mainoo has significantly slowed due to Manchester United’s hardline stance.

Director Giovanni Manna hinted that they weren’t necessarily focusing on the midfield in an interview with Corriere dello Sport.

“Frank Anguissa and Billy Gilmour are close to returning, while Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne are question marks. Therefore, we’d like to raise the quality of our attack. We’re making evaluations.”

Our Take on Napoli and Goretzka

It’d be a typical rock-solid signing for Conte’s habits, and it’d be an achievement if they got him for free. They’d be playing with fire if they really didn’t acquire a new piece, as they’d be in dire straits if Stanislav Lobotka and Scott McTominay, who are carrying the water at the position, missed a game or two.