Napoli are reportedly planning to make a move for Newcastle striker Ayoze Perez, according to the Northern Echo.
The newspaper says that Perez’s 12 goals in all competitions have made him more valuable than at any previous point in his career, leading to further interest from several Spanish clubs.
The report claims, however, that Napoli, who have identified Perez as one of their top summer targets, are leading Real Betis in the race to begin negotiations with Newcastle over a possible transfer.
Napoli were knocked out of the Europa League in the quarter-finals by Arsenal.
Good move for Newcastle?
Definitely not. Perez’s goals are one of the key factors in keeping Newcastle up this season and he has been one of the Magpies’ star men this season. Perez has been terrific for Newcastle and 12 Premier League goals is a fantastic return, considering Mo Salah – who currently tops the scoring charts – has 22. If Newcastle were to lose Perez this summer, it would be a big blow to their squad and it’s not likely that Newcastle would be able to find a decent replacement without spending a decent sum of money.
This is Futbol rating 2/10
Likely to happen?
This is one that could happen. Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez has stressed that he wants to keep hold of Perez in the summer, but if Benitez goes, there is a high chance the Spanish striker could follow his fellow countryman. It all comes down to whether Benitez is happy with what he has to work with from next season. If he’s not, the 59-year-old could leave and that would leave Perez’s future hanging in the balance.
This is Futbol rating 5/10