Lang explains how close he was to joining Milan before Napoli switch | OneFootball

Noa Lang has confirmed that his father and agent had explored a potential move to Milan before his transfer from PSV to Napoli was completed, but has explained that the press made the situation out to be a bigger deal than what it was in reality.

The 26-year-old was officially announced as a new Napoli player earlier this week, becoming the club’s third new signing of the summer, following Luca Marianucci and Kevin De Bruyne, who have since been joined by Lorenzo Lucca on loan with an option to buy from Udinese.

Romelu Lukaku, Noa Lang and Kevin De Bruyne in pre-season training with Napoli (Picture @noano via Instagram)

Lang sat down for his introductory press conference in front of the media on Sunday, discussing a number of topics including his start to life under Antonio Conte, the pressure of replacing  Khvicha Kvaratskhelia at Napoli and his life away from the pitch.

Lang on Napoli and Milan talks and replacing Kvaratskhelia

Lang confirmed that Napoli had made an attempt to sign him during the winter transfer window following the departure of Kvaratskhelia to Paris Saint-Germain, but explained that the Partenopei were forced to wait until the summer.

“In the winter, there was already the opportunity to join Napoli, which I already wanted in the winter but PSV didn’t let me go back then,” Lang told the press. “And then actually, at the end of the season, Napoli came back again and for me it was just a big step, a dream and an honour to play for a team like Napoli.

Noa Lang Signs for Napoli (Photo: SSC Napoli)

“I was pushing really hard, also with my agent: ‘Is it finished, is it finished?’

“In the end, I’m here so I’m really happy.”

Lang also explained that there had been exploratory talks with fellow Serie A side Milan, but the player feels that the press exaggerated the situation.

“Honestly, that’s what the press made it. It was (further away) than where the press brought it. It wasn’t that close to be honest. My father and my agent had some meetings with them, but there was nothing concrete to be honest.”

The Netherlands international also spoke about the ‘pressure’ of replacing fan-favourite Kvaratskhelia, but he confidently brushed aside any suggestion of nervousness.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia celebrates Napoli-Monza (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

“I know Khvicha is, of course, a big player, but I’m here to make my own history with the club. I feel really confident about it and I feel really ready for it and I feel the confidence of the club, so, andiamo.”