Miguel Gutierrez Arrives for Medical Ahead of Napoli Move

Spanish defender Miguel Gutierrez is about to join Napoli. He arrived in Italy for his medical after Napoli agreed to pay €20 million to Girona. The 24-year-old will sign a long-term contract and be a key player for Antonio Conte’s new team, as recent reports suggest.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Gutierrez arrived in Naples on Monday for his medical checks before finishing his move to Napoli. Last week, Napoli made a deal with Girona for €18 million, plus €2 million in extra payments for the full-back. Gutierrez will sign a five-year contract until 2030. After looking at other clubs earlier in the summer, Napoli decided on Gutierrez, who chose Napoli over other clubs. He was one of Girona’s best players last season, even with injuries keeping him out for weeks. Conte, Napoli’s manager, wants Gutierrez because he thinks his speed and smarts are perfect for Napoli’s 4-3-3 system.

NEW LOOK FOR NAPOLI

Napoli have been active in the transfer market after finishing as winners in the Serie A last season, fedging past Inter Milan in the last match of the season. Along with Gutierrez, the club has signed big names like Kevin De Bruyne on a free transfer and Dutch players Noa Lang and Sam Beukema. Gutierrez missed games last season with an ankle injury but still made it onto many Serie A teams of the year for his performances. He provided five assists and played more than 2,400 minutes as Girona finished 16th in La Liga. His attacking style and high energy made him a key player in Girona’s fight for a European spot.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR NAPOLI AND GIRONA?

Gutierrez is expected to complete his medical and sign with Napoli within 48 hours. Due to his recent injury, he won’t be match-fit until mid-September. However, Conte sees him as the clear first-choice left-back when he is ready. This weekend, Napoli will start their Serie A campaign against Sassuolo. Both teams want to start well – Napoli are title contenders, while Sassuolo will want to have a strong start to its campaign back in the Serie A. Meanwhile, Girona need to find a replacement for a key player as they get ready to continue their La Liga season against Villarreal, after losing their opening match to Rayo Vallecano 3-1.