Napoli President De Laurentiis denies club sale rumors

Aurelio De Laurentiis, president of SSC Napoli, has publicly stated that the football club is ‘not for sale,’ addressing recent speculation regarding a potential takeover by American entrepreneur Matt Rizzetta.

De Laurentiis revealed that approximately one year ago, Rizzetta—who also leads Napoli Basket—introduced him to several investment funds interested in acquiring the club. While a proposal worth approximately €2.26 billion was discussed, the president rejected the offer due to disagreements over payment structures and governance. Specifically, the funds proposed a staggered payment plan over three years and a transition that would eventually reduce De Laurentiis to an honorary president role, a prospect he deemed unacceptable.

De Laurentiis noted that he previously turned down an even larger offer of €3.5 billion from Arab investors because he was not ready to retire. He emphasized his commitment to the club and his desire to focus on constructing a new stadium. While he does not rule out a future sale in several years, he stated a preference for a Neapolitan owner over an American one to ensure the club's legacy and connection to the local community is preserved.