Napoli going all-in for Beukema: defender awaits green light from Bologna

In recent days, reports from Italy have intensified around Napoli’s firm interest in signing Dutch central defender Sam Beukema.

What initially surfaced as speculation has now gained serious traction, with multiple sources confirming that the reigning Italian champions are pushing hard to secure the services of the 26-year-old. According to information gathered by VI, people close to Beukema’s entourage have expressed optimism about the current stage of negotiations. All parties are said to be aligned on the player’s desire to make the move to Naples, and a long-term five-year contract is already prepared on the table, waiting for the final green light.

The deal, however, is far from minor. The transfer is expected to be worth at least €35 million, a figure that reflects Beukema’s rise in stature over the past few seasons. It also underlines Napoli’s willingness to invest heavily under the new direction of Antonio Conte, who has reportedly identified Beukema as a key piece in his planned defensive overhaul. The Italian tactician, known for his intense, structured playing style, has been vocal in his desire for reinforcements to ensure Napoli competes at the highest level next season, both in Serie A and in the UEFA Champions League.

For Beukema, this potential transfer represents the latest step in a career that has progressed steadily and impressively. He began his professional journey with Go Ahead Eagles, a club known more for developing talent than making headlines. It was there that he earned a reputation as a reliable, tactically sharp central defender. After helping the team gain promotion to the Eredivisie in the 2020/21 season, Beukema made a logical next move to AZ Alkmaar, a club with a strong tradition of nurturing Dutch talent and competing regularly in Europe.

During his two seasons at AZ, Beukema grew rapidly. He became a regular starter, sharpened his game reading and physical presence, and stood out for his calmness under pressure and leadership at the back. These performances didn’t go unnoticed outside the Netherlands, and in 2022 he made the bold decision to move to Serie A with Bologna. The Italian side paid around €8 million to bring him in—a figure that, in hindsight, looks like a bargain considering the impact he has had.

At Bologna, Beukema has been nothing short of a revelation. He slotted seamlessly into the starting XI and became a fan favourite for his consistency, aerial strength, and ability to play out from the back. His influence helped Bologna achieve one of their most successful seasons in recent memory, culminating in a memorable domestic cup triumph that put the club back in the national spotlight. Beukema's role in that success elevated his status not only in Italy but across Europe, drawing attention from scouts and technical directors of several top-tier clubs.

Among those suitors, Napoli stands out not just for their recent Serie A title, but also for their ambitious vision under Antonio Conte. With Kim Min-jae now gone and other defensive adjustments anticipated, Beukema’s profile matches what Napoli is looking for tall, composed, versatile, and entering his prime. While Bologna would ideally want to keep such a key player, the significant fee on the table, combined with the player's own ambitions, make his departure seem inevitable.

The defender himself is eager for the move. Napoli offers him the chance to compete at the very highest level, including guaranteed Champions League football an essential factor in Beukema's decision-making. It’s also seen as a crucial step if he hopes to earn a place in the Dutch national team under Ronald Koeman. Despite being uncapped so far, his name has appeared increasingly in discussions about the future of the Oranje defense, particularly with an eye on the 2026 World Cup cycle.

While Napoli remains in pole position, the growing interest in Beukema's situation means there is no shortage of alternatives should talks stall. Other Italian clubs including Inter and Roma are believed to be keeping a close watch, and several Premier League teams have reportedly sent scouts to assess him live. Even so, Beukema’s priority remains clear: he wants to join a Champions League club with a stable project and clear ambitions. All signs suggest that Napoli ticks every box.

With his contract at Bologna running until 2027, the final piece of the puzzle is now an agreement between the two clubs. Negotiations are ongoing, and while nothing has been officially signed, insiders close to the process say that it’s just a matter of time. Both clubs are engaged in detailed discussions over the structure of the deal, including bonuses and payment schedules, but the expectation is that a deal will be finalised soon.

For Beukema, a move to Naples would represent a major milestone in his career. From the lower leagues in the Netherlands to Serie A champion contenders and Champions League nights at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona it’s a journey that mirrors the dreams of countless young players, but one he now stands on the verge of making a reality.