Billy Gilmour’s move to Napoli from Brighton went through quite late in the summer transfer window after weeks of drama and speculation.
The Scotsman was said to have been keen on the move to Napoli and despite starting Brighton’s game against Manchester United two weeks ago, he seemed eager to play under ex-Chelsea boss Antonio Conte.
He is now a Partenopei player and Gilmour has spoken about what his initial intentions were, revealing that he was rather insistent on the move. The midfielder also stated that Brighton cooperated throughout the drama.
He told the official Napoli Youtube Channel (via TuttoNapoli): “I wanted the deal to be closed, I wanted to come here. I’m excited, it’s a new challenge.
“Sometimes you have to manage the situation personally, but Brighton behaved very well, because they understood the reason why I wanted to come here.”
Gilmour also revealed that ex-Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi had a chat with him after the move to Napoli was complete.
“It was fun. When he found out, he called me on FaceTime. He told me to enjoy the experience because Napoli is fun, like me, so I will like it.”
He also went on to speak about reuniting with Conte, having first worked with the Italian during his time at Chelsea.
“I am excited, when I was younger he coached Chelsea. When I signed with Chelsea I met him, so I have a photo with Conte taken when I was a kid. He has won many trophies. He is used to winning, so I am excited. I hope we can do something special. This enthusiasm will also help us in the final part of the season.”
While the Scotsman will be hoping for regular game time at Napoli, the Partenopei have Stanislav Lobotka and André-Frank Zambo Anguissa playing regularly in midfield, and Scott McTominay has also arrived.
As a result, the signing from Brighton may have to wait to become a vital cog in the wheel for Conte’s side.
