Napoli have reportedly joined Milan in the race for Lazio playmaker Luis Alberto, who could be on the verge of exiting the capital in the summer. According to La Repubblica (via LazioNews24), the Partenopei have added the Spanish attacking midfielder to their list of targets.
Per reports, Napoli would offer Andrea Petagna as a makeweight in the deal to take Alberto to southern Italy at the end of the season. The Spaniard carries a reputation as one of the finest playmakers in Serie A, but he seems unsettled at the Stadio Olimpico.
The 29-year-old was close to leaving the Biancocelesti last summer, with Milan emerging as the potential destination. However, the deal fell through as the Rossoneri failed to meet Lazio’s demands. Alberto has eventually penned a new contract, yet he could depart in the coming months.
Napoli are keen to sign the ex-Liverpool flop to bolster their creativity in the front third, particularly in light of Lorenzo Insigne’s imminent departure for MLS franchise Toronto. Dries Mertens is also close to parting with the Stadio Diego Maradona outfit as the club refused to offer him a new deal.
Out-of-favour striker Petagna could be included as part of a player-plus-cash to bring Alberto to Napoli. The 26-year-old marksman has played a bit-part role in Luciano Spalletti’s set-up this Serie A season. He has clocked up three goals in 22 top-flight appearances so far.
It’s worth noting that most of Petagna’s league contribution has come from the bench. So it remains uncertain whether Lazio would accept the offer, as they already have the most prolific Serie A striker Ciro Immobile in their ranks.