Napoli star Matteo Politano has attracted interest from three elite clubs as Milan, Roma and Valencia plot summer bids. According to Calciomercato, Italian clubs have joined Gennaro Gattuso’s side in the race to sign the left-footed winger.
Gattuso has personally requested the signing of Politano. However, Napoli turned down’s Valencia’s initial €10m offer. The Partenopei are open to selling the 28-year-old in the summer. Yet, it will take much more than €10m to convince them to give the go-ahead.
Politano’s deal runs until 2024. That puts Napoli in a strong bargaining position. Moreover, the involvement of Milan and Roma in the hunt for the winger will only increase the price. And that’s not something Gattuso would want to hear.
Stefano Pioli is in the market for a new forward to improve competition for places following a triumphant season. Apart from Rafael Leao, all other Milan wingers blew hot and cold last season. Therefore, the Rossoneri will likely add to their attacking options in the summer.
In the meantime, Nicolo Zaniolo is on the verge of exiting Roma. The 23-year-old is one of the hottest properties in the market, with Juventus and Milan going head-to-head for his signature. His potential departure would force Jose Mourinho’s hand in the market.
Napoli have already parted with Lorenzo Insigne and Dries Mertens this summer. Both long-serving stalwarts have left the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona as free agents. But they are, nonetheless, willing to cut Politano loose.
The former Inter forward was in and out of Luciano Spalletti’s starting XI last season. Despite recording 33 Serie A appearances in 2021/22, he came on as a substitute on 13 occasions. Yet, a dismal return of three goals and four assists has seen Politano fall out of favour with Spalletti.