---
title: "Napoli rivalling Arsenal for prime defensive target"
canonical: "https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/napoli-rivalling-arsenal-for-prime-defensive-target/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Josh Challies"
section: "Arsenal Football Club"
published: "2015-10-30T19:03:40Z"
modified: "2015-10-30T19:03:40Z"
---

# Napoli rivalling Arsenal for prime defensive target

[![Rugani.jpg](https://cdn.footballtransfertavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Rugani-500x343.jpg)](https://cdn.footballtransfertavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Rugani.jpg?admin)Arsenal fans in the Transfer Tavern are concerned to hear that Napoli have joined them in the race for a prime defensive target.

[*TalkSport* state the Serie A side are keen to bring Juventus defender Daniele Rugani to Naples on-loan](https://talksport.com/football/arsenal-transfer-report-napoli-target-loan-deal-gunners-target-151029172354), which could appeal to the Turin giants as they would keep the highly-rated defender and see him continue his development in Italian football.

Arsenal are long-term admirers of the 21-year-old defender and have [scouted the impressive centre-back at numerous times during his career](https://talksport.com/football/arsenal-ready-january-approach-juventus-defender-daniele-rugani-150924167750), whilst they’re said to be interested in capturing the Italian permanently.

However Juventus may prefer to loan to Napoli, with Rugani hotly-tipped for success in the future and being likened to Italy’s World Cup winning captain Fabio Cannavaro; the only defender to win the Ballon D’Or this side of the millennia.

With Rugani rated so highly, Arsenal fans are concerned that Juventus will shun their proposals for a permanent sale and elect to loan to Napoli- which could put the Italian side ahead of the Gunners in a race for his signature should a permanent move become an option later down the line.

**Arsenal fans, do you need another centre-back? Could Rugani be a long-term defensive option for your side? Let us know in the comments below!**