Napoli President Reportedly Wants Anan Khalaily Signing

Italian reports say Napoli are seriously interested in signing Israeli winger Anan Khalaily, who just completed another strong season in Belgium with Union Saint-Gilloise. The story, first reported by Israel’s Sports Channel, says Napoli is one of the leading contenders for the 19-year-old, even though there are still doubts about whether a deal can actually be completed.

Napoli are looking for a new right-back for next season and are considering several candidates based on ability and experience. Among the names now under discussion are Khalaily and Brazilian defender Dudu, who played alongside Manor Solomon last season.

Pascal Taina of Radio Marte said Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis particularly likes Khalaily because of his age. “Napoli very much want Khalaily, largely because of his young age,” Taina said. “De Laurentiis knows he is a young player who can generate significant profit within two years.” He added that Dudu is “a very good footballer” but is 28, making future resale profit much harder.

Taina said Napoli’s thinking is strategic and focused on youth. Technically, Khalaily is considered versatile, having played both as a central striker and as an attacking winger. Some believe that makes him less suited to a defensive full-back role, but Napoli think he could cover the entire flank offensively and defensively, even in a back four. Despite the interest, local reports say questions remain over his fit for the project and Union Saint-Gilloise’s demands, and negotiations are expected to continue.