Torino have successfully completed the signing of Argentine striker Giovanni Simeone from Napoli in a deal worth €8 million. The transfer, structured as an initial loan with an obligation to buy, brings the 30-year-old forward to Turin after extensive negotiations between the clubs.
Simeone completed his medical examination and signed a contract until June 2028 worth €1.7 million per year, marking the end of his stay at Napoli where he found himself surplus to requirements under Antonio Conte’s tactical plans.
The agreement includes a €1 million loan fee plus a €7 million obligation to buy clause, allowing Torino to secure the striker permanently while managing their cash flow across multiple windows. This structure proved crucial in reaching an agreement that satisfied both clubs’ financial requirements.
Napoli initially valued Simeone at €15 million earlier in the year, but ultimately accepted Torino’s reduced offer as they prioritized clearing space in their squad and reducing their wage bill ahead of the new season.
The deal represents Torino’s commitment to strengthening their attacking options, particularly given concerns about the fitness levels of their current forward line. Club president Urbano Cairo backed the investment despite the substantial outlay for a player approaching his thirties.
Player Background and Recent Form
Nicknamed “El Cholito” after his father Diego Simeone, Giovanni has carved out his own successful career across Italian football. During the 2024/25 season, he made 33 Serie A appearances for Napoli, though his playing time was limited under the new management structure.
The striker joined Napoli permanently in 2023 following a successful loan spell from Hellas Verona. His experience in Serie A and proven goal-scoring ability made him an attractive target for several clubs throughout the summer window.
Torino management quickly reached personal terms with the 30-year-old around a three-year contract with an option for a fourth year, beating competition from promoted side Pisa who had also shown interest in the Argentine.
Strategic Context for Both Clubs
For Torino, Simeone’s arrival addresses their need for an experienced striker who can contribute immediately. The Granata were specifically looking for a match-fit striker while they wait for Duvan Zapata’s full recovery from injury concerns that have limited his availability.
Simeone left Napoli’s summer training camp at Castel Di Sangro several days ago to facilitate his departure, with Antonio Conte making it clear the striker was not part of his tactical plans for the upcoming campaign.
The transfer allows Napoli to reduce their squad size while generating funds for other potential signings. Conte’s preference for a more streamlined attacking setup meant Simeone faced limited opportunities despite his proven ability in Italian football.
Integration and Expectations
Simeone’s experience across multiple Serie A clubs should aid his integration at Torino. His understanding of Italian tactical systems and proven adaptability will be valuable assets as he joins his new teammates for pre-season preparations.
Torino previously attempted to sign Simeone in January, but Conte blocked the move at that time, making this summer’s successful completion particularly satisfying for the Turin hierarchy who had identified him as a long-term target.
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The striker’s physical presence and ability to link play should complement Torino’s existing attacking threats. His experience in high-pressure matches and European competition adds depth to their squad as they prepare for another challenging Serie A campaign.
Medical Completion and Next Steps
After completing the medical test successfully, Simeone can focus on integrating with his new teammates and adapting to Torino’s tactical approach. The timing of the transfer allows him to participate in the club’s remaining pre-season fixtures.
This transfer concludes weeks of intensive negotiations and provides both clubs with their desired outcomes. Torino secured an experienced striker while Napoli cleared space for potential new arrivals before the transfer window closes.
