Napoli's Matteo Politano set for summer move as Parma interest firms

Napoli winger Matteo Politano is expected to leave the club this summer, with newly-promoted Parma emerging as a serious contender for his signature, according to reports in Italy. The 32-year-old Italian international has one year remaining on his contract at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, and a departure is viewed as likely as Napoli plans a squad refresh under coach Antonio Conte.

Italian daily La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Parma, back in Serie A after securing promotion, have identified the experienced Politano as a prime target to bolster their attacking options. While no formal offer has been disclosed, a transfer fee is anticipated to be relatively modest given the player's age and contract situation. Politano's recent form has been inconsistent; he was notably criticized in a recent match rating by Gazzetta, which highlighted a subpar performance in a fixture against Parma itself.

Politano joined Napoli initially on loan from Inter Milan in 2019 before making the move permanent the following year. He has been a regular contributor in Naples, making over 200 appearances and winning the Serie A title in the 2022-23 season. His versatility to play on either wing and his proven track record in Italy's top flight make him an attractive proposition for a club like Parma looking to consolidate their top-flight status.

For Napoli, moving Politano on would free up wages and potentially generate a small transfer fee to be reinvested in a younger profile, aligning with Conte's apparent preference for other options in wide areas. For Parma, the move represents a statement of intent, bringing in a player with vast Serie A and European experience to guide a relatively young squad. The transfer, if completed, would mark a significant step in Parma's summer rebuilding plans as they prepare for their first season back in the top division.