Napoli’s Rare Defeat: Club Releases Statement Amid Hermoso Transfer Rumours
Published 09:09, 24 Jul 2024 GMT+1
It’s not every day a football club takes the unusual step of issuing an official statement to deny transfer talk, but that’s exactly what Napoli did. The Italian giants confirmed that they won’t be signing midfielder Mario Hermoso, despite growing rumors linking him to the Neapolitan club.
Hermoso, a free agent after leaving Atletico Madrid, has been touted as a shrewd signing by fans and pundits alike. With his 170+ appearances in all competitions over five seasons, he brings invaluable experience to the table. However, it appears Napoli’s manager Antonio Conte has other plans.
In a rather uncommon move, Napoli took to Twitter to quash the rumors:
"Tuttosport continues to talk about Hermoso at Napoli.
The defensive line was completed with the arrivals of Marin and Buongiorno. Although Hermoso is good, he is not part of Napoli’s objectives."
This statement follows Conte’s earlier declaration that their center-back signings, Alessandro Buongiorno and Rafa Marin, had completed their defensive line for next season. It’s clear that Hermoso, no matter his quality, isn’t part of Napoli’s plans moving forward.
This decision might spark concern among fans, especially considering Naples’ lackluster title defence last season. However, Conte and the club are clearly focused on revitalizing their squad with a mix of experienced veterans and promising youngsters.
Their sights are set on other signings, with Romelu Lukaku touted to make a return to the Allianz Stadium under the same boss who guided him to La Liga success at Inter. Chelsea outcast Billy Gilmour has also been linked with a £8 million move, albeit having a bid rejected by the Brighton. It remains to be seen what other moves Napoli might make as they look to bounce back with a stronger squad.
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