Napoli make FC Nantes defender Tylel Tati a priority target

FC Nantes defender Tylel Tati has emerged as a leading transfer target for Napoli, despite a difficult campaign for the 20-year-old and his club.

Nantes were relegated to Ligue 2 and have struggled further this season, sitting 14th after 12 matches. Tati, who impressed in the top flight last season and attracted interest from both PSG and FC Barcelona, has also found it difficult to reproduce that form in recent months.

His dip has not ended interest from clubs across Europe. According to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Napoli have placed the Franco-Senegalese defender at the top of their priorities for the winter transfer window.

Napoli are considering whether to make an approach during the January window or wait until next summer. The Italian club are looking to restructure a defensive department that has been experiencing difficulties, while any move for Tati would present Nantes with a significant challenge as they attempt to secure their position in Ligue 2.

Nantes are unlikely to welcome the prospect of losing one of their leading players midway through the season. However, Tati’s estimated value of 15 million euros could make the proposal financially difficult for the club to ignore.

The defender, who was born in Champigny-sur-Marne, France, extended his contract with FC Nantes until 2030. That long-term agreement gives Nantes a strong contractual position, although Napoli’s reported interest could test the club’s determination to retain him.

Tati’s performances during the previous season had already placed him on the radar of major European sides. The current campaign has been more complicated for both player and club, but Napoli’s interest indicates that his reputation from last season remains significant.

For Napoli, the possible transfer forms part of a wider effort to reinforce their defence. The club must now decide whether Tati is required immediately or whether a deal would be better pursued when the summer transfer window opens.

Napoli are also due to play their 12th Serie A match against Torino. Before that fixture, the listed odds were 1.45 for a Napoli victory, 4.20 for a draw and 6.50 for a Torino win.