Napoli are increasingly likely to appoint Bologna manager Vincenzo Italiano as their new head coach, following Antonio Conte’s expected departure after this weekend’s match against Udinese. According to reports in Italy, club president Aurelio De Laurentiis has revisited his interest in Italiano, who was previously considered for the role in both 2021 and 2024.
Conte’s tenure at Napoli has been short-lived, with the former Italy manager set to leave after just one season in charge. The club is now focusing on Italiano, who is currently contracted to Bologna until 2027, and are preparing a two-year contract with an option for a third year to secure his services. Italiano is reportedly bolstering his staff, with Marco Turati expected to return as a technical collaborator.
This pursuit of Italiano comes as former Napoli manager Maurizio Sarri is set to take charge at Atalanta. An agreement in principle has been reached with Sarri for a three-year contract worth €3.5 million per season, with the influence of incoming Atalanta sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli proving decisive. Giuntoli, formerly of Juventus and Napoli, is expected to officially join Atalanta next week.
Napoli, meanwhile, are committed to retaining their current sporting director, Giovanni Manna, despite interest from Roma. The club has also moved to secure midfielder Scott McTominay, rejecting offers from two English clubs and one from Saudi Arabia, and are in advanced talks to extend his contract until 2030 with an option for 2031, including an increased salary.
There is also potential movement regarding young forward Antonio Vergara, with Napoli having received offers between €25 and €30 million from a top Premier League club, as well as interest from two other Serie A sides. The club may consider a sale this summer.
Italiano has impressed during his time at Bologna, guiding them to a strong finish in Serie A and earning recognition for his tactical approach. His appointment would represent a continuation of Napoli’s commitment to attacking football and could signal a new era for the club following Conte’s brief spell.
