Napoli Pull Plug on Long-Term Pursuit of Juventus Stalwart

Serie A giants Napoli have reportedly pulled the plug on their pursuit of Juventus captain Danilo ahead of the January transfer window. According to Radio Kiss Kiss via TMW, Partenopei sporting director Giovanni Manna has switched his sights on Inter stalwart Stefan de Vrij.

Danilo has recently emerged as a concrete transfer target for Napoli after losing his indispensable first-team status under Thiago Motta. However, long-term injuries to Gleison Bremer and Juan Cabal have thrown the Brazilian veteran a lifeline at the Allianz Stadium.

Strapped for reliable options at the back, Motta has reinstated Danilo, whose deal at Juventus runs out at the end of the season. Napoli had hoped to capitalize on the 33-year-old’s contract wobble before deciding to focus on other targets.

Juventus are having second thoughts about Danilo’s future at the club. After initially deciding against renewing his expiring contract, they are now open to offering him a short-term extension. Therefore, Napoli have identified De Vrij as a new top defensive target.

The 32-year-old Dutchman has been outstanding since swapping Lazio for Giuseppe Meazza in 2018. However, he’ll be out of contract in the summer of 2025, with Inter seemingly reluctant to propose fresh terms. That could change if De Vrij continues to go from strength to strength.

Indeed, the rumored Napoli target has excelled in Francesco Acerbi’s absence, delivering outstanding performances in numerous high-profile matches. Despite entering the autumn of his playing career, De Vrij is still one of the most dependable center-backs in Serie A.

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