The unique flavour of Napoli vs Juventus is well known, and this time the rivalry could extend beyond the pitch. As the two clubs prepare to face off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Sunday evening, another contest is quietly taking shape — one that pits former Juventus executive Giovanni Manna against Napoli’s sporting director Damien Comolli in the transfer market.
According to reports from Tuttosport, several potential targets are already at the centre of this off-field battle between the two Serie A giants.
Tiago Gabriel in the Spotlight
One of the names on both clubs’ radars is Tiago Gabriel, currently impressing at Lecce. The Brazilian became a summer transfer talking point, and Juventus remain interested should an opportunity arise. However, the competition promises to be fierce — not least from Antonio Conte’s Napoli, who are keen to secure his signature to strengthen their midfield options.
Rodri Mendoza, the New Target
Another shared target is Rodri Mendoza, a Spanish central midfielder born in 2005 and currently playing for Elche. For Napoli, he represents a potential long-term successor to Stanislav Lobotka, whose future remains uncertain. Juventus view him as a player who could add technical quality and creativity to the centre of the pitch.
Manna’s pre-existing relationship with the player’s representatives could give Juventus an advantage, as those same agents previously facilitated Rafa Marín’s transfer.
Spalletti’s Requests
Luciano Spalletti has reportedly outlined his priorities for the January transfer window, asking the Juventus management for two specific reinforcements:
– A central midfielder to strengthen depth and control.
– A versatile full-back capable of raising the team’s quality even within a four-man defence.
These additions are seen as crucial to maintaining Juventus’ momentum in both domestic and European campaigns.
Interest in Muharemovic
Meanwhile, Napoli continue to monitor Tarik Muharemovic, formerly of Juventus Next Gen and now at Sassuolo. The 21-year-old defender has attracted positive attention, and a potential move could indirectly benefit Juventus, who still hold 50% of any future resale value.
Currently valued at around €15 million, Muharemovic’s situation could evolve depending on market dynamics and Napoli’s defensive needs.
Once again, Napoli vs Juventus is shaping up as more than just a football match — it’s also a high-stakes contest being fought in the offices of Italy’s top clubs.
