Zeballos anxiety for Napoli, Celta Vigo try to poach Boca Juniors striker
Quick summary
Napoli face uncertainty in their pursuit of a Boca Juniors striker, while Celta Vigo attempt to hijack the deal.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceNapoli might be on the verge of losing the race for Exequiel Zeballos, as it’s reported Celta Vigo sent medics to Argentina for tests with the Boca Juniors striker.
The versatile 24-year-old can play on the right wing, left or as a centre-forward, and seemed determined to join the Partenopei.
Zeballos wanted Napoli BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – APRIL 14: Exequiel Zeballos of Boca Juniors runs with the ball during a Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2026 group D match between Boca Juniors and Barcelona SC at Estadio Alberto J. Armando on April 14, 2026 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images) He refused to sign a new contract with Boca Juniors , so with his deal there set to expire on December 31, it was assumed reaching an agreement for the sale to avoid a free transfer would be relatively simple.
However, there were two main problems, firstly that Napoli first had to make sales to raise funds, secondly that Boca Juniors were demanding over €10m.
The situation remained like that for over a month, and it is reported that Zeballos has lost patience with the Serie A giants.
There had already been suggestions over the last few days that Celta Vigo had made a strong bid, and now La Voz Del Galicia claim that the club sent one of their medical staff to Argentina for tests.
Although Romelu Lukaku was sold to Fenerbahce for €6m plus add-ons, it is not enough for Napoli to push on for Zeballos.
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What happened
Napoli are reportedly anxious about their pursuit of a Boca Juniors striker, with Celta Vigo entering the race to sign the same player. The Argentine forward has attracted interest from Serie A and La Liga sides, creating a bidding competition that could complicate negotiations with Boca. Napoli had appeared to be in a strong position, but Celta Vigo's intervention has added complexity to the deal.
Chance analysis
Competition between Napoli and Celta Vigo for a Boca Juniors striker signals a modest but interesting transfer battle between Serie A and La Liga clubs. For Napoli, missing out on the target could force them to explore alternative attacking options late in the window. Celta Vigo's involvement suggests they see the player as a key reinforcement, potentially for their European or domestic campaign.
Potential transfer competition may delay or redirect Napoli's striking reinforcement plans while strengthening Celta Vigo's squad if they succeed.
Monitor the resolution of this transfer battle as it may affect Napoli's attacking depth plans and Celta Vigo's squad composition.