SSC Napoli are stepping up efforts to secure the future of Cameroon international Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, whose contract with the club is approaching its expiry.
The midfielder had initially been considering leaving after a demanding season, but new head coach Massimiliano Allegri is determined to persuade him to remain part of his squad.
Talks over Anguissa’s future appear to have moved forward at Napoli’s training camp in Castel di Sangro, where the player’s agent, Maxime Nana, was seen alongside a representative of the Italian coach.
The meeting is regarded as a significant indication that negotiations over a contract extension could resume shortly. Those discussions are expected to be encouraged by Anguissa’s impressive performances during pre-season.
Allegri has been particularly impressed by the Cameroon international’s level of commitment in recent weeks. The coach believes Napoli should do everything possible to retain a player with Anguissa’s quality and experience.
The midfielder’s form and involvement have strengthened the case for a new agreement, with Allegri keen to keep him within his plans despite the player’s earlier desire to consider a departure following a difficult campaign.
Anguissa is now at the centre of a decision that will ultimately rest with Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis. The club’s next step is expected to be the presentation of a fresh contract offer to the midfielder’s representatives.
For Napoli, the priority is to make that proposal sufficiently convincing to change the direction of the player’s thinking. Anguissa’s contract situation has therefore become an important issue for the club as it seeks to settle the composition of Allegri’s squad.
The presence of Nana at Castel di Sangro, together with a representative of Allegri, has provided the clearest sign yet that the matter is being actively addressed behind the scenes. It also suggests that contact between the two sides could soon resume formally.
No final decision has been reported, and the outcome will depend on the terms Napoli are prepared to offer and the response from Anguissa’s camp. De Laurentiis must now determine whether to make the improved proposal needed to retain the midfielder.
For the moment, Allegri’s position is clear: he wants Anguissa to stay. The coach’s efforts, combined with the player’s strong pre-season displays, have given Napoli renewed hope of extending the Cameroon international’s time at the club.