Napoli have confirmed Alessandro Buongiorno will undergo knee surgery in the coming days.

The centre-back struggled with knee pain towards the end of last season, and new scans have led to the decision for surgery.

After helping Napoli win the Serie A title in 2024-25, Buongiorno played a more prominent role under Antonio Conte, who has since left his role as head coach, last term.

The 27-year-old played 33 Serie A games last season as Napoli finished second, 11 points behind champions Inter.

Among Napoli players in 2025-26 league games, Buongiorno won the most aerial duels (75), recorded the most interceptions (40) and the most clearances (113).

Napoli released a statement which read: "Alessandro Buongiorno underwent a specialist medical consultation in Barcelona today, which revealed the need for surgery to repair the root of the medial meniscus in his right knee.

"The Italian defender will undergo surgery in the coming days."

Buongiorno could face several months on the sidelines, meaning Napoli could enter the market for a central defender.

Massimiliano Allegri's side will begin their Serie A campaign on August 22 against Genoa, which is followed by tough fixtures against Como and Inter.