5 transfer targets for Napoli this summer
Napoli had a tough end to the season as they fell short of Juventus in the final furlongs. This summer they will have to retain their main men, as Gonzalo Higuain, Kalidou Koulibaly and Elseid Hysaj have all been linked with moves away. Whilst the Partenopei have been linked with players, the selection may surprise some as they are not all household names.
Pitor Ziellinski: Napoli President, Aurelio De Laurentiis has already claimed that he has reached an agreement with Udinese for their Polish attacking midfielder. According to Premium Sport, the 22-year old will cost 15 million Euro but while the club have agreed a fee it is rumoured that the player himself is holding out to see if any more offers come in.
With five goals and six assists this season the Pole has impressed whilst playing out on loan at Empoli and was an obvious pick for the Polish squad in France. He is a player Maurizio Sarri rates highly and would fit into Napoli’s system with consummate ease.
Leandrihno: The 17-year-old Brazilian is being watched by Real Madrid and Manchester United amongst others and whilst still very young is showing great potential. The striker has been in superlative form this season with nine goals in eight games for Pronte Preta this season. He has pace and a natural instinct for goal and what’s more he possesses a lot of maturity for his years.
His agent has claimed to Radio CRC that he prefers the Bay of Naples in which to ply his trade as he believes he will get more playing time. He can sign in January 2017 when he turns 18 years of age and could be a real coup of he moves to San Paolo.
Fabinho: The Brazilian is primarily a right back but can also move into midfield with consummate ease. The 22-year old has been capped four times by Brazil and in his 47 appearances for Monaco he has scored an impressive eight goals and produced five assists. He is like many of their targets young, talented but mature although he may carry a hefty price tag as he is being tracked by many of Europe’s top clubs.
Corentin Tolisso: Napoli are battling Arsenal for the signature of Lyon midfielder Corentin Tolisso. The 21-year old has had a strong campaign and he is strong, quick and can play in more than one position on the midfield. His passing is also exemplary and he could be a useful asset to cover or play alongside Marek Hamsik.
Gianluca Lapadula: Finally, the Gazzetta Dello Sport has reported that there is a deal in place with Napoli and Pescara for the sale of striker Gianluca Lapadula. The deal will cost 9 million Euros with a possible extra 2 million Euros in bonuses and that is needed is an agreement from the player. The 22-year old forward has been prolific in Pescara’s promotion race and is certainly seen as one of Italy’s hot prospects. Lazio have also been interested but it seems that this could be Napoli’s first purchase of the summer.