A few strikers have recently been linked to Milan, even though they do not appear to be seeking one. Beto and Lorenzo Lucca will not be January options.
UDINE, ITALY - NOVEMBER 28: Beto of Udinese Calcio reacts during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Genoa CFC at Dacia Arena on November 28, 2021 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Napoli Targeting Beto as Vice-Osimhen

Napoli boss Luciano Spalletti reportedly contemplates submitting a bid for Udinese striker Beto as a backup option for Victor Osimhen. According to Calciomercato, the Partenopei are readying an offer for the Brazilian marksman. 

Beto enjoyed a stellar breakthrough Serie A campaign at the Dacia Arena last season. He bagged 11 goals in 28 league appearances for Udinese while on loan from Primeira Liga outfit Portimonense. 

His outstanding maiden season in Italy has persuaded the club to hand him a permanent stay in Serie A. Unfortunately for the Udinese faithful, Beto’s future could be away from Udine. 

Napoli relied on Andrea Petagna to deputise for Osimhen last season. However, the Italian striker failed to live up to expectations. Petagna’s poor scoring return has forced Spalletti to consider adding another striker to his ranks.

Beto appears to be Spalletti’s prime objective. It is still uncertain what Udinese may request to let their star goal-getter leave. The Friulani relied on the 24-year-old to keep them safe from relegation. Alongside Gerard Deulofeu, he was one of the club’s best-performing players last term.

Napoli incidentally want the former La Masia product to replace Lorenzo Insigne at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. But Udinese have made it clear they have no intention of allowing their headline performer to leave in the summer

And while they may miss out on Deulofeu’s signing, Napoli could still rob Udinese off of another high-performance star. Beto ticks all the boxes for the type of player Spalletti is aiming to recruit. Yet, convincing the Dacia Arena side to sanction a deal could prove tricky.