Napoli revive interest in French-Ivorian defender Oumar Solet ahead of potential summer move

Napoli have reportedly renewed their interest in Udinese defender Oumar Solet, but a January transfer move for the centre-back is considered unlikely.

According to TuttoMercatoWeb, the Italian champions continue to monitor the defender after exploring the possibility of signing him during the previous transfer window.

However, Udinese’s high valuation prevented negotiations from progressing, leaving Napoli to consider other priorities as they plan their next recruitment drive.

The club are expected to focus on signing at least one midfielder and one striker in January, with defensive reinforcements viewed as a possibility for the summer instead.

Solet remains on Napoli’s radar

Napoli’s interest in Solet has not disappeared, with the club continuing to monitor Udinese, a team with whom they have completed several transfers in recent years.

The defender was assessed as a potential target during the last transfer window, but Udinese’s financial demands proved an obstacle.

Inter also contacted Udinese about the player before turning their attention to Stones, according to the report.

Napoli could revisit the situation if an opportunity emerges in the coming months, although Solet is not currently among their immediate priorities.

Napoli expand midfield shortlist

While defensive recruitment may be postponed, Napoli are continuing to assess options in midfield.

Their reported list of targets includes Mamadou Coulibaly, Adem Zorgane, Lucas Bergwall, Tomas Aranda and Romano.

Romano is owned by Roma, but Cagliari have the option to purchase him for €5m.

The growing shortlist reflects Napoli’s focus on strengthening their midfield options as they prepare for the January transfer window.

Varela remains an attacking option

In attack, Gustavo Varela remains Napoli’s most concrete option, according to the report.

However, Monza are reluctant to sell the player, potentially complicating the club’s efforts to strengthen their forward line.

With midfield and attacking reinforcements taking priority, Napoli’s pursuit of Solet could depend on whether circumstances change before the summer transfer window.