Brighton & Hove Albion could soon make a concrete offer for Bayer Leverkusen defender Andrea Natali as they look to move ahead of Napoli in the transfer race.
The Seagulls have already made major changes at centre-back after selling Jan Paul van Hecke to Tottenham and releasing Adam Webster. Pascal Struijk and Michael Svoboda have arrived, while Brighton are also closing in on Tottenham youngster Luka Vušković.
However, Fabian Hürzeler’s side are not finished and have now joined the race for 19-year-old Natali.
Brighton prepare Andrea Natali transfer offer
According to Corriere dello Sport, Brighton and Napoli are both interested in signing the Italy youth international.
The Seagulls could soon submit a concrete offer in an attempt to get ahead of the Serie A club, although no potential fee has yet been reported.
Napoli have considered Natali as a backup option for their first-team defence, while Cagliari had been prepared to offer him a more important role. However, the Sardinian club are now reported to have stepped back from the race.
That could leave Brighton and Napoli as the leading contenders.
Natali has yet to make his senior debut for Bayer Leverkusen and spent last season on loan at AZ Alkmaar, where he represented their youth sides.
Despite his lack of first-team experience, the defender’s potential has attracted interest from clubs in England and Italy.
Why Brighton could have an advantage
Brighton’s reputation for developing young players could make them an attractive destination for Natali.
The teenager has less than a year remaining on his Bayer Leverkusen contract, potentially creating an opportunity for the Seagulls to complete a deal without paying a major transfer fee.
Any significant movement is expected after Natali completes his latest international commitment with Italy.
Key Points
- Brighton could soon make a concrete offer for Bayer Leverkusen defender Andrea Natali.
- The Seagulls are looking to move ahead of Napoli in the transfer race.
- Cagliari have reportedly stepped back from their interest in the 19-year-old.
- Natali has less than one year remaining on his Bayer Leverkusen contract.
- Brighton have already made major defensive changes after Jan Paul van Hecke’s departure.
What’s next?
Brighton are expected to decide whether to formalise their interest once Natali completes his international commitments.
With Cagliari moving away from the race, an early offer could give the Seagulls an advantage over Napoli and secure another highly rated young defender for Hürzeler’s squad.
Can Brighton beat Napoli to one of Italy’s emerging defensive talents?
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