Serie A champions Napoli are on the verge of signing Kevin De Bruyne as a free agent, marking a major coup in their summer transfer plans. The Belgian midfielder is expected to join the growing list of Premier League stars heading to Italy, including Romelu Lukaku, Scott McTominay, and Billy Gilmour.
Napoli’s sporting director, Giovanni Manna, confirmed to reporters late Thursday that De Bruyne is “pretty close” to sealing a deal with the club. The 33-year-old recently ended his illustrious 10-year tenure at Manchester City, where he won six Premier League titles and lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy in 2023.
The move will see De Bruyne play under Antonio Conte, who has officially committed to staying with Napoli after weeks of speculation about a possible return to Juventus. Conte had been linked with a switch back to Turin — the club where he enjoyed immense success as both a player and manager — following public criticisms of Napoli’s management under owner Aurelio De Laurentiis.
However, speaking to Sky Sport, Conte confirmed he would remain in charge:
“At the end of every season, the coach and club sit down to assess the journey so far, ensure there’s a shared vision, and decide if there’s still the desire to move forward. We’ve done that, and since our visions align, we’re continuing together. We’re serious professionals.”
Conte, whose contract runs through 2027, has overseen a remarkable turnaround since taking over a Napoli side that had slumped to 10th place in their failed 2023 title defence. Under his leadership, the team reclaimed the Scudetto, with standout performances from new signings Lukaku and particularly McTominay, who has quickly become a fan favourite.
If completed, De Bruyne’s signing would be a major statement of intent from Napoli as they prepare to defend their league title and make a serious push in Europe.
