Napoli join race for Liverpool target as alternative to winger wanted by Man Utd

Napoli are the latest side to show interest in Nabil Fekir after the Lyon playmaker had second thoughts about a move to Real Betis.

Liverpool’s top target last summer, a deal was agreed to take the Frenchman to Anfield before Jurgen Klopp’s side pulled out due to concerns over an old knee injury.

Despite this, Fekir went the whole season injury free, contributing nine goals and seven assists as Lyon secured Champions League qualification by finishing third.

Fekir is once again being tipped to seal a move away, with Real Betis the most recent side to be linked. However, RMC Sport claim that, while the two clubs are yet to agree a fee, the 26-year-old has gone cold on the idea, because he wants to play in the Champions League.

One club that would allow him to do that is Napoli, and L’Equipe say that they have begun negotiating with Lyon over a potential move.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side had been chasing James Rodriguez, but they look unable to meet the €50m asking price set by Real Madrid, so are considering other targets.

Nicolas Pepe is another name to have been suggested for last season’s runners up in Serie A, although he plays in a slightly wider role than the aforementioned duo. Besides, it has been claimed that Manchester United are ready to offer serious competition for the Ivorian winger, who had previously been linked with Arsenal and Liverpool.

Therefore, Napoli will aim for Fekir, after he held initial talks with former Chelsea boss Ancelotti.