Mário Rui on his way to Napoli
- Jul 7, 2017
- 2 min read
Napoli and Roma have agreed on a deal for Mário Rui to join the Azzurri, according to Gianluca Di Marzio. The Partenopei will get the fullback from the Giallorossi for just over €9 million plus bonuses.
The Portuguese defender and Napoli had already agreed to personal terms on the player’s contact prior to the deal closing out.
Rui only made five appearances in the Serie A for Roma last year and nine in all competitions. The 26-year-old had limited playing time last season due to an ACL injury that sidelined him for months.
It seems that a big reason for Napoli’s strong interest in Rui is his prior history with the Azzurri’s manager Maurizio Sarri. Sarri manned the same position at Empoli before joining Napoli, and Rui was one of his consistent players.
Rui doesn't possess a strong offensive game like Napoli’s starting left-back, Faouzi Ghoulam. However, the Portuguese man has a strong passing game, and can make crucial plays on the defensive side of the ball.
Ghoulam will likely continue to be the starting left-back for the Partenopei, but Rui would play a backup role to the Algerian as it seems that Ivan Strinic could be on his way out.
A healthy Rui could prove well for Napoli as he already has experience with Sarri’s system and style of play. The fullback is also very capable of starting some matches in order to give Ghoulam a rest. He can even challenge Ghoulam for the starting left-back spot. His abilities and potential give this deal the chance to be a steal for the Partenopei.
Rui will become Napoli’s second signing of the summer transfer market after the deal is soon made official.
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