Nikola Maksimovic deal a loan with “obligation” to buy

While it was reported over the last few days that Nikola Maksimovic would be signing with Napoli on a permanent transfer, on deadline day that changed. Instead of a €26 million plus bonuses deal as previously reported, Napoli are instead taking the Serbian defender on loan for the season for €5 million up front and with the partenopei holding a €20 million purchase clause.

The phrasing being used is that the clause is an “obligation” for Napoli to buy, suggesting that it’s triggered after a certain number of matches. Considering the deadline day drama Napoli had to go through just to sign Maksimovic, including having to skip his medical because he couldn’t get to Italy in time, it’s a good protection against the possibility of injury.

It’s not pretty, and it’s not idea, but the deal is still done, and Maksimovic will be bringing his talents to Naples. This is a good signing for Napoli, no matter how it’s structured.