Napoli have shifted their focus to Lecce defender Tiago Gabriel as they seek to bolster their squad following an injury to Alessandro Buongiorno, according to reports from Dimaro Folgarida. Buongiorno is expected to be sidelined for several months, prompting Napoli to reassess their defensive options.
Giovanni Manna, Napoli’s sporting director, has been actively pursuing reinforcements, with a central defender now a priority. While Federico Gatti and Oumar Solet remain on Napoli’s list of potential targets, Gabriel has emerged as the leading candidate. The 20-year-old Portuguese centre-back impressed in Serie A last season, making 37 appearances and playing 3,220 minutes for Lecce.
Gabriel’s consistent performances were key to Lecce’s successful fight against relegation under coach Marco Di Francesco. Napoli scouts have long monitored the player, but previously considered their defensive options sufficient following the return of Rafa Marin and Marianucci from loan spells. However, with Buongiorno’s injury and concerns over Beukema’s Achilles tendon issue, the need for a new centre-back has become urgent.
One factor in Gabriel’s appeal is his age, classifying him as an “under” player within Serie A squad registration rules, meaning he wouldn’t occupy a non-domestic player slot. Despite his youth, Gabriel is described as possessing a mature and confident personality, capable of handling the pressure of playing for a club like Napoli. Negotiations with Lecce are underway, but the southern Italian club are reportedly seeking a fee of at least €20 million for their key defender. Napoli are considering the offer, recognizing the need to strengthen their defense.
In addition to addressing the centre-back position, Napoli are also looking for a potential understudy to Giovanni Di Lorenzo at right-back. Their search has focused on young talents such as Costantino Favasuli of Catanzaro and Niccolò Fortini of Fiorentina, both of whom offer versatility and fit Napoli’s strategy of investing in promising young players.
