AC Milan's hopes of bolstering their defense with Mario Gila appear to be slipping away. The 22-year-old Lazio center-back has caught the eye of the Rossoneri, but Napoli are now close to securing his signature. Gila had been tracked by Milan's scouts during the previous campaign, but it seems the Partenopei have won the race for his services.

Napoli are reportedly willing to meet Lazio's valuation of Gila, who has also been on the radar of Juventus. The Bianconeri's interest may have been a factor in Milan's hesitation to make a concrete offer, allowing Napoli to swoop in and take control of the transfer.

Ruben Amorim's imminent arrival as Milan's new coach may also impact the club's transfer strategy, with the Portuguese tactician likely to have a say in the squad's reconstruction. However, the delay in securing Gila's services has handed Napoli a significant advantage in the pursuit of the young defender.

Milan's transfer window has gotten off to a slow start, with the club yet to make any major signings. The loss of Gila to Napoli will be a disappointment for the Rossoneri, who will need to look elsewhere to strengthen their defense.