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The arrival in Serie A, more precisely at Napoli, of Kevin De Bruyne immediately sparked debate on the most important zero-rated parameters to land in Italy.

The strategy of free agents has become routine for Serie A clubs. In a moment like this, where European football is increasingly influenced by economic parameters, being able to strengthen without breaking the bank becomes very important. And above all, it is necessary to seize the opportunity in time, and with intelligence.

Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City acknowledges the fans after his final home game following the Premier League match Manchester City vs Bournemouth at Etihad Stadium, Manchester, United Kingdom, 20th May 2025
(Photo by Mark Cosgrove/News Images)

Serie A: zero parameters like De Bruyne

The concept of zero parameters today has stopped being linked to players at the end of their careers or looking for a comeback. It has indeed become a real opportunity to secure players already ready to make an impact. The latest case is represented by Kevin De Bruyne, with 22 titles in his career between Genk, Wolfsburg, and Manchester City, who has chosen our league.

A move that gives international weight to Napoli, convinced to continue to be the queen of Italy with the Belgian midfielder. The 33-year-old has tied himself to the Campania club for two years (plus an optional one). But above all, he proves to be one of the most valuable zero-rated players to arrive from abroad. While waiting for the next list to be enriched with other names, such as Jonathan David, it was decided to look back in time.

If we were to base ourselves only on the market value at the time of the release, De Bruyne would rank 9th. The value of the Belgian, 20 million, places him alongside players of the caliber of Varane (Como 23/24) and Balotelli (Brescia 19/20). If we were to go even further back in time, we could mention Luis Figo (at Inter in August 2005).

However, the podium of this special ranking is all in black and white. Three players who, for one reason or another, have made headlines. The gold medal goes to Paul Pogba. The “Octopus” Paul, in his second experience at Juventus, arrived as a free agent with a value of 48 million.

Rounding out the podium are Aaron Ramsey and Adrien Rabiot. Both arrived at the court of the “Old Lady” in the 19/20 season, with a market value of 40 million for the Welshman, formerly of Arsenal, and 35 million for the Frenchman.

It is worth mentioning the fourth place of Marcus Thuram, a very important piece in the Inter chessboard. Lilian’s son had a value of 32 million euros upon his arrival. Quite different from now.