With their UEFA Champions League qualification firmly secured, Napoli are already shifting their gaze to the summer transfer window, planning strategic reinforcements to build for the future. The club's management is proactively scouting young talent, a move that underscores a clear vision regardless of manager Antonio Conte's long-term status.

This proactive approach has led them to Benfica's Richard Rios, a player who was heavily linked with Roma just last year. According to reports from Gianluca Di Marzio, Napoli have initiated contact regarding the Colombian midfielder, who ultimately joined Benfica for €27M. Rios has enjoyed a solid debut season in Portugal, featuring in 33 matches and contributing with 2 goals and 4 assists, showcasing the dynamic profile Napoli seeks.

Their interest doesn't stop there. The Partenopei are also keenly tracking Kerim Alajbegovic, the Swiss youth international who recently helped eliminate Italy from 2026 World Cup qualification. Per Alfredo Pedullà, Napoli have been working on this deal for months and aim to fend off competition from clubs like Roma and AC Milan for the player, valued around €15-20M.

This refined scouting strategy marks a subtle but significant shift for Napoli. The club's director appears to have found more success recently by independently identifying promising youngsters, a contrast to last summer's more expensive, veteran-focused acquisitions. As the team enjoys a strong run of form while competing in a single tournament, the lesson is clear: adding youthful depth and energy this summer will be crucial to sustaining a challenge on multiple fronts next season.