Valencia and Napoli have kickstarted talks over Matteo Politano’s summer switch to La Liga, insists Calciomercato. The Spaniards want to land the left-footed winger, who is no longer satisfied with his life in southern Italy.
Politano was in and out of Luciano Spalletti’s starting XI last season. He may have made 33 Serie A appearances in 2021/22. But he had to come off the bench 13 times, suggesting he wasn’t Spalletti’s first-team regular.
A lack of end product often tormented the 28-year-old last term. He notched up an underwhelming three goals and four assists in Italy’s top flight. As a result, Politano is not indispensable at Napoli anymore.
Despite the departure of Lorenzo Insigne and Dries Mertens, he doesn’t have a guaranteed starting berth. As a matter of fact, Napoli are in the market for new forwards. Udinese’s Gerard Deulofeu tops Spalletti’s wishlist.
But the Partenopei have to sort out the outgoings first. Politano’s name features Valencia’s list of targets close to the top. New manager Gennaro Gattuso holds his Italian compatriot in high esteem.
The former Milan boss wants to take the forward over to La Liga but has to sell first. Valencia’s interest in Politano could be a consequence of Goncalo Guedes’ potential departure. The Portuguese winger has numerous high-profile admirers in Europe.
If Guedes leaves Valencia, the Spaniards could launch a decisive attempt to prise the ex-Inter star away from Napoli. Talks between the parties are casual for the time being. Yet, they could gather momentum soon.
Politano’s possible move to La Liga could accelerate Deulofeu’s arrival. Though Udinese are reluctant to sanction his transfer to Napoli, the player’s desire may give Aurelio De Laurentiis the upper hand.