Napoli have reportedly approached Ajax to ask about Nicolas Tagliafico’s availability as they look to reinforce their backline this winter. Per Gianluca Di Marzio, the Partenopei have initiated new contacts with the reigning Eredivisie champions after a failed attempt to close the deal in the summer.
Napoli were interested in Tagliafico before the start of the season, but the transfer failed to materialise. However, the Serie A giants are keen to pick up where they left off in the summer and convince Ajax to sanction the move this time around.
Tagliafico’s contract in Amsterdam runs out in 2023, and the Lancers are looking to cash in on their prized asset. The 29-year-old left-back has gone from strength to strength since arriving from Independiente in January 2018, drawing a host of enquiries from top European sides, including Chelsea and Marseille.
But Napoli, who are aiming to add competition at the left-back position, currently occupied by Mario Rui, have accelerated their pursuit to see off other suitors. Faouzi Ghoulam has deputised for the Portuguese ace, but a series of injury setbacks have seen the Algerian spend more time on the sidelines.
Tagliafico is an attacking-minded left-back who loves to venture forward, which makes him a perfect addition to Luciano Spalletti’s side. But his reluctance to pledge his future to Ajax has seen him fall down the pecking order this season. After making just nine Eredivisie appearances, the Copa America 2021 winner is seeking a new challenge elsewhere.
However, negotiating with Ajax has never been easy, and Napoli may have to be patient and persistent if they are to get the deal over the line.