Napoli are ramping up their efforts to sign Juanlu Sanchez from Sevilla, with the Spanish full-back now edging closer to a move after weeks of stalled talks.
The Partenopei, who are currently most likely to win next season’s Scudetto according to US betting sites, are looking to fine-tune their squad for the upcoming campaign in a bid to compete on all fronts.
The reigning Serie A champions are looking to reinforce their right flank with a younger, dynamic profile who can rotate with veteran Giovanni Di Lorenzo.
With doubts surrounding Pasquale Mazzocchi’s future and Alessandro Zanoli yet to fully convince, the 21-year-old Spaniard has emerged as the leading target.
Napoli has offered €17 million, including bonuses – just short of Sevilla’s €20 million asking price. Still, given Sevilla’s pressing financial situation and Sanchez’s eagerness to join, a deal now appears well within reach.
Why Napoli Wants Juanlu Sanchez
Sporting director Giovanni Manna and head coach Antonio Conte view Sanchez as an ideal fit for their tactical setup.
A modern full-back with attacking flair, Sanchez recorded four goals and four assists for Sevilla last season, and his style mirrors much of what Napoli fans have come to expect from Di Lorenzo.
Conte, who traditionally demands discipline and work rate from his wide defenders, reportedly gave the green light after evaluating the squad’s depth during Napoli’s initial summer training camp.
With a heavy fixture list on the horizon – Serie A, Champions League, Coppa Italia, and Supercoppa Italiana – Napoli needs reliable rotation options.
Is Sanchez Leaving Sevilla?
Though Sanchez remains part of Sevilla’s squad for now, it’s clear the club would sell at the right price.
The Andalusian side are under financial pressure and are keen to trim the wage bill, particularly for players who can command significant transfer fees.
Despite being handed the symbolic No. 16 shirt, previously worn by club legend Antonio Puerta, Sanchez has not been removed from the market completely.
Talks between Manna and Sevilla resumed recently, with all sides acknowledging that the time to act is now.
Napoli Squad Depth
Napoli have already addressed other areas of need, including the arrival of Vanja Milinkovic-Savic in goal. Now, the right-back position is the next box to tick.
Di Lorenzo, who played nearly every minute of last season, will need managing in 2025–26, especially under Conte’s physically demanding system.
At 21 years old, Sanchez offers not only youth but also versatility, with his ability to slot in at right-back or higher up the flank depending on the tactical needs.
His development under Conte could mirror that of other attacking full-backs the manager has molded in the past, such as Achraf Hakimi, Marcos Alonso, and Ivan Perisic.
