SSC Napoli have officially agreed a deal to sign Spanish left-back Miguel Gutierrez from Girona for €18 million plus €2 million in add-ons. The 24-year-old has chosen to join Antonio Conte’s project ahead of other potential destinations, with medical examinations and travel arrangements now being scheduled.
The agreement concludes weeks of intensive negotiations between the two clubs, with Real Madrid set to receive 50% of the transfer fee due to a sell-on clause negotiated when Gutierrez joined Girona in 2022. Personal terms have already been agreed between Napoli and the player’s representatives.
Transfer Structure and Real Madrid Clause
The transfer package totals €20 million, structured as €18 million guaranteed plus €2 million in performance-related add-ons. This represents a significant profit for Girona, who signed Gutierrez from Real Madrid for approximately €4 million in 2022.
Real Madrid will receive around €10 million from this transfer due to their 50% sell-on clause, demonstrating the financial benefits of their academy development and strategic player sales. The Madrid clause was negotiated as part of Gutierrez’s original move to Girona.
The deal structure allows both clubs to maximize their returns while providing Napoli with a proven left-back who has excelled in both La Liga and Champions League competition.
Player Performance and Background
During the 2024/25 season, Gutierrez made 36 appearances across all competitions for Girona, scoring two goals and providing six assists. His consistent performances helped Girona secure European qualification for the first time in their history.
The 24-year-old left-back emerged from Real Madrid’s academy system before joining Girona permanently in 2022. His development at the Catalan club has been impressive, establishing himself as one of La Liga’s most consistent full-backs.
His attacking contributions from the left flank, combined with solid defensive work, made him an attractive target for multiple European clubs throughout the summer transfer window.
Personal Terms and Player Preference
Agreement over personal terms was reached between Napoli and Gutierrez’s representatives, with the Spanish defender expressing his desire to work under Antonio Conte at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
Gutierrez specifically wanted to join Napoli ahead of other interested parties, influenced by Conte’s tactical approach and the club’s ambitions in Serie A and European competition. His preference for the Italian move simplified negotiations.
The player’s commitment to the Napoli project proved crucial in finalizing the deal, with his representatives working closely with both clubs to ensure smooth completion.
Strategic Context for Napoli
The signing addresses Napoli’s need for consistent quality in the left-back position as Antonio Conte builds his squad for domestic and European challenges. Gutierrez’s pace and crossing ability align perfectly with Conte’s tactical preferences.
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His experience in high-pressure matches, including Champions League football with Girona, provides valuable credentials for Napoli’s European ambitions. The club views him as an immediate starter who can contribute across multiple competitions.
This represents a change in strategy for Napoli, who have moved quickly to secure their priority targets rather than prolonging negotiations throughout the summer window.
Medical and Final Steps
Medical test and travel arrangements are now being organized, with all formalities expected to be completed within the coming days. The comprehensive nature of previous negotiations should ensure a smooth conclusion to the transfer.
This signing continues Napoli’s active summer recruitment as they prepare for another challenging Serie A campaign under Conte’s guidance, with Gutierrez providing quality and depth in a crucial position.
