Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has stressed the only way the club can grow is by “increasing the turnover” by featuring in European competition. He appointed Carlo Ancelotti as the club’s new manager while current boss Maurizio Sarri is still contracted to the club.
De Laurentiis believes the former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager can play a key role in making Napoli a global brand. The Italian coach has already analysed his squad for the 2018/19 season and wants to sign a goalkeeper, full-back, midfielder and a winger.
It is believed that Napoli are close to securing the services of Bologna’s Simone Verdi. He can play anywhere up front and in the midfield, depending upon the requirements of his manager. Napoli midfielders Jorginho and Marek Hamsík are linked with moves to Manchester City and China respectively.
De Laurentiis suggests that Napoli have already rejected Manchester City’s €50 million bid for Jorginho, while suggested that Hamsik will be allowed to leave the club this summer.
“My company must grow in terms of turnover and serve the European cups. I don’t know any other way,” De Laurentiis said during an interview with Corriere dello Sport.
“Carlo Ancelotti is the key to the internationalization of Napoli. He wants to keep 80 percent of the current squad. Our aim is to bring in a goalkeeper, a full-back, a midfielder and a winger.
“Jorginho? I have already refused City’s €45 million plus €5 million bonus for Jorginho. If Hamsik wants to go to China, then we will not stop him. But, how much will they pay for him?”
