Napoli are on the verge of securing a blockbuster transfer for Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, marking the first significant signing under new manager Antonio Conte.
The 32-year-old, who recently joined Belgium’s national team camp following a brief holiday in Ibiza, is preparing for World Cup qualifiers as Napoli finalise the deal.
Sources confirm that Napoli’s legal team is ironing out the final contract details, with an official announcement expected shortly after Belgium’s match against Wales in Brussels. De Bruyne will then travel to Rome for a medical examination and to sign his contract.
The acquisition of De Bruyne, a world-class talent, is seen as a cornerstone of Napoli’s ambitious rebuilding project under Conte.
The midfielder will reunite with Belgian teammate Romelu Lukaku, forming a formidable partnership both on and off the field.
This move signals the start of a busy summer transfer window, with Conte targeting eight new signings to bolster the squad.
Napoli’s transfer plans include a backup striker for Lukaku, two wingers, one or two central midfielders (pending André-Frank Zambo Anguissa’s future), a versatile full-back, a central defender, and a goalkeeper, despite Alex Meret’s likely contract renewal.
The overhaul is deemed critical as Napoli prepare to compete in four competitions next season, including the Italian Super Cup.
The club has already parted ways with Simone Scuffet, Jeppe Billing, and Felix Okafor, with further departures expected to balance the squad and finances.
Conte, known for his emphasis on physical preparation and tactical discipline, is pushing for swift progress in the transfer market to have the squad ready for the Dimaro training camp on July 17.
Napoli’s ambitious project, led by Conte and spearheaded by stars like De Bruyne and Lukaku, has sparked optimism among fans as the club aims to rebound from a challenging season and compete at the highest level.