Napoli Close to Double Signing of Juanlu Sanchez and Miguel Gutierrez

Napoli are about to sign Juanlu Sanchez from Sevilla and Miguel Gutierrez from Girona. These additions will strengthen their defense for the new season.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Napoli are in talks with Sevilla for right-back Juanlu Sanchez and Girona for left-back Miguel Gutierrez. Gutierrez is recovering from ankle surgery and may join for more than €18 million, with half going to his old team, Real Madrid. Juanlu Sanchez is also close to a deal for about €17 million, and other clubs like Wolverhampton Wanderers are interested. According to reports, Napoli has made a €17 million offer for Juanlu Sánchez, and despite other teams’ interest, Napoli are likely to sign both players as talks continue.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Last season, Napoli became Serie A winners, leaving Inter Milan in the 2nd spot in the last matchday. With manager Antonio Conte, the club is rebuilding for the new season. Juanlu and Gutierrez both played well in Spain last year. Gutierrez played 32 league games for Girona, who finished 16th, and Juanlu played 29 games for Sevilla. Napoli’s current full-backs have been inconsistent. Conte uses a 4-3-3 formation that needs smart, energetic wide defenders.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR NAPOLI?

Once the transfers are done, both players will join Napoli soon. Gutierrez has accepted Napoli’s offer and is working on personal terms for a five-year contract, indicating he is likely to join Napoli from Girona for more than €18 million. They might play after the September international break when Gutierrez is fully recovered. Napoli are getting ready for their Serie A opener against Sassuolo. Last season, with Napoli in 1st and Sassuolo in promoted from the Serie B. Napoli want to win back-to-back Serie A titles, and move deep in the Champions League, and both Juanlu and Gutierrez will be important as Conte begins leading the team.