De Laurentiis warns Everton ‘buzzards’ star Napoli man is not for sale
Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis has warned Everton that his club’s “impenetrable armour” will stop the Toffees from signing midfielder Allan.
Everton are reportedly keen on Brazil international Allan, who has a strong relationship with Toffees boss Carlo Ancelotti. Indeed, the Toffees have allegedly had Allan on their radar for a number of months.
The speculation appeared to ramp up a notch earlier this week. Reports in Italy claimed Allan was gearing up for a move to Goodison Park.
What’s more, Napoli sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli was reportedly willing to finalise his exit.
However, speaking to Radio Kiss Kiss, De Laurentiis has offered a strong denial of those claims.
“I see many buzzards on the transfer market – you know who they are,” he said.
“They seem to be waiting to swoop in [on Kalidou Koulibaly and Allan], but we have impenetrable armour and they’ll not get what they want or at the prices they want.”
Koulibaly, meanwhile, is reportedly a target for Manchester City. Pep Guardiola has already signed Nathan Ake but allegedly wants to continue his defensive revamp.
In addition, Napoli are willing to sell given they recently splashed out to sign striker Victor Osimhen from Lille.
Pressed on Koulibaly’s future, De Laurentiis said: “You don’t have to ask me if Koulibaly will play for Napoli again.
“You have to ask Manchester United, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain. They are the teams who can afford to pay certain amounts today.”
PSG could look to bring in another top defender given Thiago Silva’s recent departure.
The Brazilian has left as a free agent, with a move to Chelsea looking likely.
EVERTON KEEN ON SMALLING
Meanwhile, Everton are reportedly keen on signing Manchester United defender Chris Smalling.
The Englishman has returned to Old Trafford after his loan spell at Roma, where he became a fan favourite.
However, the Italian side are facing financial difficulties and a permanent deal in Italy looks uncertain.