With Massimiliano Allegri expected to take charge in the coming days, Napoli are already working behind the scenes on an ambitious transfer plan that could reshape the squad ahead of the new season.
The arrival of Massimiliano Allegri may not be official yet, but SSC Napoli are already moving aggressively in the transfer market.
Club president Aurelio De Laurentiis and sporting director Giovanni Manna are laying the foundations for a squad built around Allegri’s ideas, with reinforcements targeted in midfield, defense, full-back, and goalkeeping positions.
At the center of the project is a familiar name for the incoming coach: Adrien Rabiot.
Rabiot Emerges as the Dream Midfield Signing
Few players have enjoyed a stronger relationship with Allegri than Rabiot. The pair worked together for years at Juventus FC, and Allegri reportedly pushed to bring the French international with him during his brief stint at AC Milan.
Now Napoli could make another attempt.
The move is closely linked to the future of Frank Anguissa, whose contract enters its final year in 2027. Should the midfielder depart this summer, Rabiot is viewed as the ideal replacement and a perfect partner for Scott McTominay and Stanislav Lobotka in Napoli’s midfield.
The obstacles remain significant. Rabiot is still under contract with Milan until 2028 and reportedly earns around €5.5 million per season, a figure that clashes with Napoli’s desire to reduce the overall wage bill. However, Allegri’s influence could prove decisive if negotiations advance.
Mario Gila Tops Defensive Wishlist
Defense is another area expected to undergo changes.
Veteran defender Juan Jesus will leave as a free agent at the end of June, prompting Napoli to intensify their pursuit of Mario Gila.
The Spanish center-back has become one of the standout defenders in Serie A during his time with SS Lazio and is entering the final year of his contract. Lazio are believed to value him at approximately €25 million, while Claudio Lotito is expected to be a tough negotiator.
Gila’s age, experience, and familiarity with Italian football make him one of Napoli’s preferred options to strengthen the back line.
Dodô Becomes Serious Target at Right-Back
Napoli are also searching for competition and long-term support for captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo.
While Belgian club Royale Union Saint-Gilloise winger Anan Khalaili remains on the radar, recent attention has shifted toward Dodô of ACF Fiorentina.
The Brazilian full-back has just one year remaining on his contract and renewal talks have stalled, creating an opportunity Napoli hope to exploit. Fiorentina are thought to value him at around €15 million.
Competition is expected, however, with AS Roma also monitoring the situation. New Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini reportedly views Dodô as a potential partner for fellow Brazilian target Wesley França on the right flank.
Goalkeeper Situation Could Bring Another Surprise
Napoli may not stop there.
The club is evaluating the future of both current goalkeepers, with Allegri expected to have a major say once officially appointed.
One emerging target is Matej Kovář, the Czech Republic’s starting goalkeeper and current player for PSV Eindhoven. Napoli know him well from recent European encounters, and discussions could develop after PSV completed his permanent signing from Bayer 04 Leverkusen earlier this year.
His potential arrival would create uncertainty around both Alex Meret and Vanja Milinković-Savić.
Meret, who battled several injury issues last season, enters the final year of his contract in 2027. Napoli must soon decide whether to extend his deal or consider alternative solutions. Milinković-Savić, meanwhile, remains highly regarded after arriving as one of the club’s biggest investments of 2025.
Allegri’s Influence Already Being Felt
Even before signing his contract, Allegri appears to be shaping Napoli’s transfer strategy. The pursuit of Rabiot highlights the trust the coach places in players he knows well, while the club’s focus on proven Serie A performers such as Gila and Dodô suggests a desire to build a squad capable of competing immediately.
With the summer transfer window only beginning and the World Cup likely to influence market dynamics later in the year, Napoli are positioning themselves to be one of Serie A’s most active and ambitious clubs.
