Tottenham may not be keen on losing Dejan Kulusevski this summer, but the deal could be advantageous if Gary Neville’s valuation holds any weight.
Sky Sports pundit and Manchester United legend, Neville, has previously estimated the Swedish star’s value at around £100 million. Additionally, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed admiration for Kulusevski’s talents following a match against Tottenham.
There are rumors that Kulusevski could depart north London this summer, with Aston Villa and Napoli showing interest. Napoli’s current manager, Antonio Conte, who initially brought Kulusevski to the Premier League in January 2022, is reportedly eager to reunite with him in Serie A.
Kulusevski, 24, has previously praised Conte and defended him when he criticized his squad in 2023. He described Conte as a “very important man” in his career and someone he deeply respects.
Conte isn’t the only manager impressed by Kulusevski. Guardiola praised the player after a match in December 2023, where Kulusevski played a pivotal role in securing a 3-3 draw at the Etihad Stadium, setting up one goal and scoring a last-minute equalizer. Despite starting as a winger, Kulusevski excelled in a makeshift No. 10 role last winter during James Maddison’s injury absence.
Neville further highlighted Kulusevski’s potential, suggesting he could eventually be worth nine figures, especially if he continues to excel in an attacking midfield role.
However, it seems unlikely Napoli could afford such a fee without significant sales. The Italian club has already spent around £40 million on new players this window without any major sales. Conte, now supported by former Juventus youth director Giovanni Manna in Naples, might have to accept that acquiring Kulusevski this summer could be out of reach.
