Napoli have already spent approximately €70 million this transfer window, not on new acquisitions, but fulfilling pre-existing payment agreements for players already at the club, according to reports in Italy. The Serie A side have settled outstanding fees for Alisson Santos, Rasmus Hojlund, and Lorenzo Lucca, commitments made during previous transfer dealings.
The club completed the permanent signing of Alisson Santos from Sporting Lisbon, triggering a further payment of €16.5 million on top of the initial €3 million installment agreed in January. A deal with Manchester United for Rasmus Hojlund, initially prompted by an injury to Romelu Lukaku, ultimately cost Napoli €50 million, including a prior €6 million payment. Lorenzo Lucca’s transfer from Udinese, facilitated by a request from club owner Aurelio De Laurentiis to Gino Pozzo, involved an initial payment of €9 million, with a further €26 million to be paid in installments over three years.
These significant outlays are now forcing Napoli to reassess their squad size and financial position. President De Laurentiis has reportedly requested a reduction in the playing staff, with the club identifying 25 players deemed surplus to requirements. New sporting director Giovanni Manna faces the task of offloading these players to balance the books and reshape the squad.
Napoli currently have 47 players on their books, reduced to 46 after Turi’s move to Pineto. The high wage bill associated with such a large squad is a key concern for the club. De Laurentiis stated at a recent event that the club needs to sell 25 players, signalling a shift in transfer strategy, with future acquisitions likely to be delayed until funds are raised through sales. The club’s recent spending demonstrates a continued commitment to strengthening the team, but also highlights the need for financial prudence.
