Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis is set to return from America this weekend, and there are indications that his meeting with Antonio Conte could be scheduled sooner than expected.
De Laurentiis has urged the Salento-born coach to make a swift decision regarding his future, highlighting that if Conte decides to leave, there will be enough time to secure a replacement between April and May.
Financial considerations are crucial: Conte is seeking an increasingly ambitious squad, but the Napoli president will face budget constraints that prevent him from matching last summer’s extravagant spending.
Additionally, there is a compelling financial element at play: the national team’s offer is appealing to Conte, but it’s unlikely he would receive the same salary he currently enjoys in Naples.
As reported by Il Corriere della Sera, De Laurentiis has already compiled a list of potential successors. Gian Piero Gasperini remains a frontrunner, barring any resolution in Roma’s situation with Claudio Ranieri.
Fabio Grosso is another popular candidate, while Enzo Maresca, who has been linked to the Giallorossi’s coaching role, is also under consideration.
Lastly, Maurizio Sarri could make a welcome return to Napoli, provided the circumstances are right and he is open to leaving Lazio.