Serie A runners-up Napoli have reportedly developed a genuine interest in Genoa wingback Brooke Norton-Cuffy. According to Tuttomercatoweb, the Englishman could be one of Napoli’s first signings under new manager Massimiliano Allegri.
Allegri is on the verge of taking over from Antonio Conte, who left Naples at the end of the season. Indeed, the Italian veteran’s arrival is just a mere formality, as the parties found an agreement earlier this week. Meanwhile, Napoli are already scouring the market for reinforcements after failing to defend the Scudetto.
Long-serving captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo remains a faithful servant, but the Partenopei are looking to upgrade their options on the wing. As such, they’ve identified Norton-Cuffy as a concrete target despite Inter’s interest in the Arsenal academy graduate.
Cristian Chivu’s men have been keen on the 22-year-old since January, but Napoli are now poised to hijack the transfer.
Our take on Napoli & Norton-Cuffy
Norton-Cuffy’s contract at Luigi Ferraris runs until 2029, which puts Genoa in a strong bargaining position heading into the summer transfer window. Aware of the growing interest in their rising star, the Griffins are likely to demand north of €25 million for the transfer.
Given the player’s potential, Napoli would be wise to shell out that figure. With Di Lorenzo entering the autumn of his career, now is the perfect time for the Partenopei to strengthen the right wing. Furthermore, Allegri’s trademark 3-5-2 formation would perfectly suit Norton-Cuffy.
As if that’s not incentivizing enough, Napoli would put a dent in Inter’s transfer plans. Therefore, their pursuit of the English starlet makes perfect sense.
ที่มา: cultofcalcio.com
