Club have ‘made progress’ on deal for Brighton man after €1m difference in valuation halted transfer

Napoli have ‘made progress’ on a deal for Brighton and Hove Albion defender Leo Ostigard as they target a deal this summer.

That’s according to Il Mattino, relayed by Mondo Napoli, who say the defender will fill the hole left by Axel Tuanzebe, who has returned to Manchester United after a loan spell in Naples.

Ostigard spent the second half of last season on loan at Genoa, and while he was unable to help them avoid relegation, he made a big impression at the Italian club.

So much so that Napoli are keen on a deal this summer and are looking to take advantage of the fact his contract with Brighton is set to expire next summer.

Embed from Getty Images

There had been some confusion about Ostigard’s contract situation with the Seagulls, with some sources stating his deal ended next year and others in 2024, although sources this week confirmed to Sport Witness his contract ends in 2023.

That gives Napoli the chance to secure him for a bargain price, and reports have made it clear that a deal was at an ‘advanced state’.

The main sticking point was the asking price, with Brighton valuing Ostigard at €6m and Napoli refusing to go above an overall package of €5m.

The meant there was work to be done but Il Mattino report today that Napoli have ‘made progress’ on solving those issues.

Whether that means they’re getting closer to Brighton’s demands or the Seagulls are lowering their demands isn’t clear, yet the two parties appear to be getting closer to a deal to take Ostigard to Italy permanently.