Giovanni Manna, the director of Napoli, has issued a warning to Boca Juniors regarding their interest in Exequiel Zeballos. He stated that the club is only willing to proceed with a purchase under favorable conditions; otherwise, they are prepared to wait until he becomes a free agent in January 2027.
It is well-known that Zeballos has already reached an agreement on personal terms with Napoli, which has led him to decline Boca Juniors’ attempts to extend his current contract.
His existing contract is set to expire on December 31, and Napoli feels that their offer of just under €10 million is reasonable given the circumstances, while Boca is holding out for the full €14.5 million release clause.
With minimal progress in negotiations, Manna conveyed his stance in a recent press conference.
Manna Sets the Stage for Zeballos
BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – MAY 19: Otavio of Cruzeiro intercepts a shot from Exequiel Zeballos of Boca Juniors during a Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2026 group D match at Estadio Alberto J. Armando on May 19, 2026, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
“We are fond of Zeballos; however, injuries have hindered his progress. We’ve been in negotiations for the past six to eight months; it’s part of the process,” said the Napoli sporting director.
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“Transfer market dynamics can shift and influence our plans. Zeballos is definitely of interest, but we’ll pursue a deal only under ideal conditions. If not, we can afford to wait for him.”
“We have many players on our radar; he garners extra attention due to his connection with Boca Juniors and the expiration of his contract.”
In response, Boca Juniors president Juan Roman Riquelme recently commented on the situation.
“Zeballos has a contract with us until December. I’m uncertain about his potential move to Napoli. As Boca’s president, my focus remains here, not Napoli.”