Napoli’s age‑reset hunt: Tottenham’s Sarr versus Colombia’s Rios

Serie A side Napoli are actively scouting to refresh their midfield, with reports indicating interest in Tottenham’s Cameroonian midfielder Pape Sarr and Colombia’s World Cup standout Richard Rios, as doubts grow over the future of Andre‑Frank Zambo Anguissa whose contract expires in the summer of 2027.

Napoli aim to lower their squad’s average age once Zambo Anguissa departs, a move prompted by the midfielder’s contract winding down in 2027. Turkish clubs have also been circling the Cameroonian, adding external pressure on the Italian side.

The club’s scouting list includes Tottenham’s Pape Sarr, whose playing time diminished during the 2025/26 campaign. Sarr’s reduced role in London has made him a viable target for Napoli’s rebuilding plan.

Richard Rios is another candidate, having impressed for Colombia at the World Cup. The Benfica forward has previously been linked with Napoli and is now back on the Partenopei radar.

Negotiating a deal for Sarr would be challenging, as Premier League players rarely transfer for modest fees. Conversely, Benfica are likely to point at a hefty release clause for Rios, meaning Napoli would need to wait for a price drop or improved performance.

Napoli believe either midfielder could become the spine of their midfield, addressing long‑standing concerns about creativity and balance. The club’s hierarchy sees both players as potential solutions to the squad’s ageing core.

While Napoli’s interest is clear, no formal offers have been lodged yet. The summer transfer window will determine whether the Italian side can secure either player before Zambo Anguissa’s departure.