Everton midfielder Davy Klaassen’s deadline day move to Napoli is in danger after the Serie A giants realised he is cup-tied for the Europa League, according to Sky Sports.
The broadcaster claim in their live transfer blog (Wednesday, 12:59) that Napoli had been trying to negotiate a loan deal with an option to buy for the Netherlands international.
Sky report that they may now be looking elsewhere after only just realising that Klaassen would be ineligible to play in the Europa League after appearing in the group stage for the Toffees.
It is said that Napoli believed a deal was close for Klaassen, but Everton sources reportedly believed it was never that close, and this news represents a big twist as he seeks a Goodison exit.
Klaassen was a £24million signing from Ajax in the summer, but the attacking midfielder has failed to deliver on that price tag at Goodison Park, making just 13 appearances in all competitions so far.
Good move for Everton?
A loan definitely looks like the right option for both club and player.
The only appearance that Klaassen has made under Sam Allardyce was a dead-rubber Europa League clash against Apollon Limassol, and he has not been included in their squad for the last 15 Premier League matches.
He has obvious talent, but just has not been able to recreate that in the Premier League so far, and a move to Serie A may do him some good.
It would also help Everton out by offloading his wages, which are undoubtedly high after his big-money summer transfer.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
Well, the move to Napoli did look very much on the cards, but now it looks unlikely.
Napoli obviously see the Europa League as a good chance for a trophy, and to have a new signing have to sit out of their matches in the competition would not be ideal.
It now seems that they will look elsewhere, and Klaassen may be forced to stay at Goodison and fight for his place.
This is Futbol rating: 4/10