Napoli turned down an approach from Como for rising star Antonio Vergara, with coach Antonio Conte and sporting director Giovanni Manna both blocking a potential transfer.
Vergara has enjoyed a sensational start to the year, scoring three goals in his last four appearances across three different competitions.
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He found the net against Chelsea in the Champions League, Fiorentina in Serie A and most recently against Como in the Coppa Italia, despite Napoli’s quarter-final elimination.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Antonio Vergara of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
His rapid development has strengthened Conte’s faith in the youngster, who is now viewed not merely as a squad option but as a genuine attacking asset capable of adding unpredictability to Napoli’s forward play.
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Como failed in pursuit of Napoli sensation Vergara
Como sporting director Carlo Alberto Ludi confirmed his club’s long-standing interest.
“We wanted Vergara last July and even the year before,” Ludi told Kiss Kiss Napoli, via SportItalia.
“Giovanni Manna was very honest with us and said he wanted to develop him at Napoli. We have followed him for a long time and tried to sign him outright, because that is how we work.”
UDINE, ITALY – AUGUST 20: Napoli linked Giovanni Manna of Juventus during the Serie A TIM match between Udinese Calcio and Juventus at Dacia Arena on August 20, 2023 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
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Meanwhile, Vergara’s agent played down talk of a contract renewal.
“There is absolutely nothing at the moment,” he said. “Antonio must only think about playing and helping Napoli reach the Champions League. Then, at the right time, President De Laurentiis will evaluate the situation.”
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