Napoli are reported to be in pole position to sign Mario Hermoso as a free agent from Atletico Madrid, beating Roma, Inter, Juventus and Milan.
The defender’s current contract at the Wanda Metropolitano expires on June 30 and he will turn 29 later this month.
Chiringuito TV already suggested that Hermoso had his heart set on a new experience in Serie A for the next step of his career.
This effectively ruled out the proposals from Aston Villa and Newcastle United, who had approached his representatives in May.
Hermoso sights set on Serie A
There were several Italian clubs interested, but Napoli were always the favourites, having been in talks for several months.
According to DAZN, the Partenopei are in pole position and could even get a deal done over the weekend.
They have proposed a four-year contract with option to extend for another season.
Napoli also formally appointed new coach Antonio Conte and this will help Hermoso to make his decision about going to the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.