Napoli is taking a firm stance to retain their key pillars amid transfer market rumors. Napoli Sporting Director Giovanni Manna has confirmed that midfield duo Kevin De Bruyne and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa are certain to remain part of the Il Partenopei squad for the upcoming season. This move was made to quell speculation about player departures due to the club's budget efficiency policy.
Manna admitted that his club is currently prioritizing financial balance to comply with Serie A's Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations. After spending heavily over the last two years and with Napoli missing out on Champions League competition, management has been forced to tighten spending. Napoli's current transfer scheme requires players to leave first before making new signings.
Regarding De Bruyne's situation, Manna did not deny there was temporary tension after the player openly criticized former coach Antonio Conte's tactics. Nevertheless, the management considers the dispute resolved. The Belgian player is still under contract for two years with an option for an additional year, and his future is entirely under the club's control.
Meanwhile, a different situation is faced by Romelu Lukaku, who is currently on post-World Cup holiday before deciding his next steps. On the other hand, Anguissa is confirmed not to be for sale as he still has an active contract. Less encouraging news comes from the defensive sector after Alessandro Buongiorno was ruled out for up to three months due to a knee meniscus injury, prompting the club to quickly sign Sam Beukema as a deputy.
Entering a new era under Massimiliano Allegri, who replaced Antonio Conte, Napoli continues to set high targets. Manna is optimistic that Allegri's presence will bring new energy to the team to compete for titles in various upcoming competitions, despite the club undergoing strict financial adjustments.
