Despite Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis denying any links with Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Italiano, it is understood that the former Spezia and Trapani tactician is a person of interest. In a recent interview, De Laurentiis maintained his positive outlook on Italiano, citing the respect between the two parties. However, following the Viola’s disheartening 2-1 defeat to West Ham United in the Conference League final, Italiano could very well be on the move.
Italiano’s arrival could also mean the departure of highly-rated Serbian defender Nikola Milenkovic from Fiorentina, who according to Calciomercato, is a potential replacement for Kim Min-jae. The South Korean center-back is widely expected to leave the Partenopei this summer, and Napoli are on the hunt for his successor.
Milenkovic extended his Viola contract last summer, but has continually been linked to the exit door thanks to his impressive performances. His current deal ends in the summer of 2027. Meanwhile, Italiano is reportedly the main candidate for the Napoli bench, given the admiration held for him by De Laurentiis and the Partenopei management.
However, as reported recently, almost two dozen names have been shortlisted to arrive in the south of Italy ahead of the 2023/24 Scudetto-defending season, and the Fiorentina duo might just win the race.
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