Napoli have activated the €16m buy option to sign Alisson Santos permanently from Sporting CP and are now targeting a right-back, with the club weighing a costly long-term option in Anan Khalaili against a cheaper, experienced alternative in Fiorentina’s Dodo. The decision will shape depth and succession at full-back ahead of the new Serie A campaign.
Alisson Santos signing made permanent
Alisson Santos’ loan has been converted into a permanent move after Napoli met the €16m clause. The left-sided attacker delivered four goals in 14 Serie A appearances following his January arrival, justifying the investment after an encouraging six-month spell. Combined with the initial €3.5m loan fee, the club has locked in a player they see as a fit for their wide options.
Right-back hunt narrows to two clear candidates
Napoli’s next recruitment focus is the right-back slot. The club has narrowed its search to two contrasting profiles: Anan Khalaili and Dodo.
Anan Khalaili — long-term upside, high price
Anan Khalaili, 21, represents the youthful, high-ceiling route. Union Saint-Gilloise’s reported asking price around €25m reflects his potential and international status. Khalaili would be an investment in succession planning and a player with resale upside, but his cost is significant given Giovanni Di Lorenzo still occupies the starting role.
Dodo — immediate solution, better value
Dodo, 27, offers an experienced, more affordable alternative. Fiorentina appear open to an exit while his contract winds down, and his price tag — roughly €15m — is considerably more manageable. He would bring immediate competition and cover at right-back, and an existing agent link with a current Napoli player could smooth negotiations. Roma have also been linked, underlining Dodo’s market interest.
Why this decision matters for Napoli
Choosing between Khalaili and Dodo forces Napoli to weigh short- and long-term priorities. Opting for Khalaili signals a forward-looking strategy: investing in a potential long-term starter and future asset. It also risks overpaying for a player who will need time to adapt. Signing Dodo would be a pragmatic move to shore up depth now, reduce wage and transfer risk, and keep the squad competitive across Serie A and European commitments.
Likely outcome and next steps
Given the price gap and Di Lorenzo’s presence, the pragmatic path favors Dodo unless Union Saint-Gilloise lowers its valuation. Napoli’s hierarchy will balance budget discipline with squad needs; expect talks to accelerate in the coming weeks as the club completes Alisson’s registration and finalizes right-back priorities.
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Whichever route they choose will define how Napoli manage full-back succession and rotation this season.
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