SSC Napoli has fully activated the 'KDB Project.' The move to acquire Kevin De Bruyne (34, Manchester City) is quietly yet swiftly underway. Lee Kang-in (24, Paris Saint-Germain) was also mentioned.

The Italian media outlet 'Napoli Più' reported on the 9th (Korean time) that "Napoli has begun substantial contact to acquire Kevin De Bruyne, the midfield commander of Manchester City." At the center is Director General Giovanni Di Laurentiis, who reportedly flew directly to Manchester, England, to negotiate face-to-face with De Bruyne's camp.

The underlying contact became apparent when De Bruyne's wife, Michelle Lacroix, recently visited Naples. Lacroix examined local residences, suggesting that this "preliminary check" indicates significant progress in negotiations.

The media noted, "The De Bruyne couple has frequently visited Naples due to their past relationship with friend and former colleague Dries Mertens, and in fact, they held their wedding in Santa Maria delle Grazie in 2017."

"Napoli noticed the announcement that De Bruyne, who has been at the heart of Manchester City for 10 years, will depart the team at the end of this season. He still wishes to compete in Europe, and Napoli, aiming for a return to the Champions League, is enticing him with a two-year contract and a signing bonus," it reported. It emphasized, "He is the best option available without a transfer fee."

Of course, there are significant competitors. There are possibilities of remaining in the Premier League, as well as lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia and Major League Soccer in the United States. Napoli Più explained that "if De Bruyne chooses Europe, he cannot avoid a salary reduction. Here, Napoli focuses on 'the quality of life outside football and the team's ambitions' as key weapons. Notably, national team colleague Romelu Lukaku is actively encouraging De Bruyne to move to Napoli, effectively acting as a 'sponsor.'"

Lee Kang-in's name comes up here. The media stated, "This is not just a move for De Bruyne. According to multiple reports, Napoli is also considering strengthening its attacking resources with Darwin Núñez (26, Liverpool), Jonathan David (25), whose contract with Lille expires, and promising young player Samu Omorodion Aghero (21) from Porto." It also pointed out that "as a side resource, Lee Kang-in from Paris Saint-Germain is also on the list."

It added, "Lee Kang-in has shown inconsistency this season, but his potential as a creative resource is still recognized."

The media added, "Napoli, which began a full-scale rebuild under the management of Antonio Conte, is expected to finalize its direction soon through a strategic meeting with President Aurelio De Laurentiis. The core is clear: they aim to enhance immediate performance through 'major signings' that combine skill and experience."

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