Feyenoord have officially announced the signing of 18-year-old Italian attacking midfielder Matteo Malasomma from Napoli’s Primavera squad. The Rotterdam club has secured the versatile player on a permanent transfer until June 2027, with an additional option to extend the contract through 2028.
The transfer was completed as a free move, with Malasomma traveling to the Netherlands over the weekend to finalize the deal. The youngster, born on September 14, 2006, has spent his entire youth career development within Napoli’s academy system, progressing through their various age groups before making this move to Dutch football.
During the 2024/25 season, Malasomma proved his attacking capabilities by netting seven goals and contributing six assists across 31 appearances for Napoli’s Under-19 team. His productivity at youth level caught the attention of several European clubs, with Feyenoord ultimately winning the race for his signature.
The Italian operates primarily as an attacking midfielder but possesses the versatility to function across multiple forward positions. His technical abilities and creative vision have been highlighted by scouts who have monitored his development throughout the Italian youth system.
Development Strategy and Loan Move
Rather than throwing Malasomma directly into senior action, Feyenoord have arranged for the teenager to gain valuable first-team experience through a loan spell at FC Dordrecht. This strategic approach allows the player to adapt to Dutch football while competing regularly at professional level.
The loan arrangement serves multiple purposes for all parties involved. Dordrecht, managed by former Netherlands international Dirk Kuyt, will benefit from adding a promising attacking talent to their squad. Meanwhile, Malasomma gains exposure to senior football without the immediate pressure of performing at Eredivisie level.
Timing and Market Context
The completion of this transfer comes during a period of transition for Feyenoord, who recently appointed Robin van Persie as their new head coach following management changes earlier in 2025. Van Persie’s arrival has brought renewed focus on developing young talent and implementing an attacking style of play that could benefit players like Malasomma in the future.
The signing aligns with Feyenoord’s established strategy of identifying and nurturing promising young players. The club has built a reputation for developing talent before either integrating them into the first team or selling them to larger European clubs for substantial profits.
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Financial and Contractual Details
While the exact financial terms remain undisclosed, the free transfer nature of the deal presents excellent value for Feyenoord. The club has secured a player with clear potential without paying a transfer fee, investing only in wages and development costs.
The contract structure, running until 2027 with an option for 2028, provides Feyenoord with security over the player’s future while offering Malasomma sufficient time to develop and potentially break into the senior squad. This arrangement protects the club’s investment while giving the player opportunity to grow.
Future Prospects
Malasomma’s arrival adds depth to Feyenoord’s youth development pipeline and provides competition for places in attacking positions. His progression will be closely monitored during his time at Dordrecht, with the possibility of integration into Feyenoord’s first-team squad dependent on his adaptation to Dutch football.
The transfer is a calculated investment in potential rather than immediate impact. Success will be measured not only by Malasomma’s individual development but also by his eventual contribution to Feyenoord’s competitive ambitions or the financial return generated through a future sale.
This acquisition continues Feyenoord’s tradition of identifying emerging talent from across Europe while maintaining their focus on building for both present success and long-term sustainability.
