Napoli have taken a major step towards signing Exequiel Zeballos, with the Argentine winger having already agreed personal terms on a five-year contract that has reportedly been in place since May.
The Boca Juniors star has made his intentions clear by rejecting a lucrative proposal from CSKA Moscow, who were prepared to offer him a five-year deal worth €20 million net—equivalent to €4 million per season. Despite the financial incentives, Zeballos turned down the move, making it known that his priority is to join Napoli.
The transfer is now dependent on Napoli creating space in their squad and generating funds through player sales before submitting an official offer. Reports suggest the Serie A club are preparing an opening bid worth $10 million as they look to begin formal negotiations.
Softfootball understands The pursuit of Zeballos comes during an important rebuilding phase for Napoli following the appointment of Massimiliano Allegri as the club’s new head coach. Allegri was officially unveiled after reaching a mutual agreement with AC Milan to terminate his previous contract.
Napoli view the highly rated Argentine as a player capable of adding pace, creativity and attacking flair to Allegri’s squad ahead of the new season.
With the player fully committed to the move and personal terms already settled, attention now shifts to negotiations between the clubs, with Napoli hoping outgoing transfers will pave the way for Zeballos’ arrival in Naples.
