Serie A

Napoli track Sugawara as Southampton relegation could pave way for deal

March 25, 2025

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Napoli track Sugawara as Southampton relegation could pave way for deal

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 25: Yukinari Sugawara of Southampton takes on Marc Cucurella of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Southampton FC at Stamford Bridge on February 25, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Napoli have added Southampton right-back Yukinari Sugawara to their radar and have reportedly held preliminary talks to assess the feasibility of a deal next summer.

The Partenopei are expected to offload Pasquale Mazzocchi in the upcoming transfer window and are in the market for a new backup to Giovanni Di Lorenzo, who will remain the first-choice option in that position.

Yukinari Sugawara playing for Southampton (Napoli target) — SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – MARCH 15: Yukinari Sugawara of Southampton looks to attack during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC at St Mary’s Stadium on March 15, 2025 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images)

With Ivan Jurić’s Southampton just a few games away from being mathematically relegated, Napoli believe Sugawara may be inclined to explore opportunities elsewhere, allowing them to negotiate his signing on favourable terms.

Napoli eye Sugawara with Southampton relegation set to ease transfer

According to transfer experts Matteo Moretto and Fabrizio Romano, the Serie A giants are monitoring the Japan international and have already initiated discussions for the versatile defender, who can also operate as a centre-back.

Napoli have added Yukinari Sugawara to their shortlist at right back position.

He’s one of the names being monitored for the summer. @MatteMoretto pic.twitter.com/uGNWv69tmO

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 25, 2025