Napoli are set to begin a new era under Massimiliano Allegri, with club president Aurelio De Laurentiis having reportedly reached an agreement with the former AC Milan manager.
Only the final resolution of Allegri’s contractual situation remains before the appointment can be officially announced.
Advertisement
As preparations for the new season get underway, one of the first key decisions facing Allegri concerns the goalkeeping position.
After a campaign in which Antonio Conte ultimately favored Vanja Milinković-Savić, the arrival of the new coach could see Alex Meret restored to a central role in Napoli’s plans.
Allegri Could Restore Meret as First Choice
The competition between Meret and Milinković-Savić failed to produce a clear long-term solution last season. According to reports from Il Mattino, Allegri is a strong admirer of Meret and may decide to make the Italian goalkeeper his first-choice option once again.
While Conte valued Milinković-Savić for his ability to contribute in possession, Allegri is believed to appreciate Meret’s reliability and shot-stopping qualities.
The 29-year-old began last season as Napoli’s starting goalkeeper, featuring in four of the opening five matches before a metatarsal injury sidelined him from October until early January.
Even after his return, Meret struggled to reclaim a regular starting place. Conte initially rotated both goalkeepers before eventually settling on Milinković-Savić as his preferred choice.
Advertisement
From January onward, Meret made just seven appearances compared to 15 for his teammate. A meeting between Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna and Meret’s agent, Federico Pastorello, is expected in the coming days.
The goalkeeper’s future could depend heavily on Allegri’s assessment and plans for the squad.
Juventus and Fenerbahçe Monitoring the Situation
Napoli’s uncertainty has attracted attention from elsewhere, with Juventus reportedly keeping a close eye on developments.
Luciano Spalletti, who is laying the foundations for a new-look Juventus project, is said to be interested in reuniting with Meret after the pair worked together successfully during Napoli’s Serie A title-winning campaign in 2023.
Spalletti knows the goalkeeper well and values both his leadership and his ability to organize the defense, making him a potential target should Juventus move for a new number one this summer.
Meret remains under contract with Napoli until June 2027, but his future is far from settled. Allegri’s final decision could prove decisive: if the new coach places his trust in the Italian goalkeeper, Meret may choose to stay and fight for a leading role at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
Advertisement
Meanwhile, interest is also emerging from Turkey. According to Il Mattino, Fenerbahçe are monitoring the situation closely, with club figures reportedly discussing Meret as a potential target should he leave Napoli during the transfer window.