Napoli and Sassuolo Join the Fray to Sign Junior Messias

Torino have been after Junior Messias for months without coming to terms with Crotone. They will be disappointed if they hoped for a last-minute discount. In fact, more sides are now eying the Brazilian playmaker. Napoli and Sassuolo, on top of Milan, are pursuing him, Alfredo Pedullà reports.

The Neroverdi asked for information as they might lose Domenico Berardi or Jeremie Boga in the final days of the window. While they openly stated that it is too late for them to leave, the players asked out. A sizeable bid could make them reconsider, and Messias could replace either thanks to his versatility. Lazio would target the Ivorian speedster if they sold Joaquin Correa to Inter, Tuttomercatoweb informs. Instead, Milan, Fiorentina, and Borussia Dortmund have taken an interest in the Euro champion, but his price tag is sky-high at the moment.

Napoli have been looking to add a midfielder during the summer, but their search has been fruitless. Messias would also provide depth on the wings. They have a tight relationship with Crotone and recently sent them goalkeeper Nikita Contini on loan. Other youngsters could follow suit to facilitate the deal.

Messias was a late bloomer and arrived in Serie A only at age 30. He excelled in the past campaign, tallying 9 goals and 4 assists. He is eager to return to the top division, but the Squali have been asking for €10M to sell him. Monza would push hard to get him if he were still available in the final days.