On, off, on, off. Everton’s hot and cold chase of Manolo Gabbiadini ended up as chilly as it comes when the whole deal was called off, and the Toffees had to make do with Enner Valencia on loan from West Ham instead.
The Italian striker appeared to be one of Ronaldo Koeman’s priority targets as the hours counted down to 11pm on Wednesday, but Aurelio De Laurentiis decided right at the last minute he wouldn’t be sold.
The arrival of the Italian striker, who performed well when called upon last year when Higuain was suspended, would have strongly bolstered Everton’s attacking options, but it wasn’t to be.
Even worse, Corriere dello Sport on Friday report that Napoli are now prepared to tie the 24-year-old down for the long term with a new contract on the way.
Maurizio Sarri has made it clear he now wants the player to be a big part of next season and beyond, and De Laurentiis seems delighted at the thought of sticking his middle finger up to the Premier League once again.
Two extra years on his contract (keeping him until 2021), and undoubtedly a much bigger asking price than €25m+ in the future if anyone wants his Italian striker.
First Koulibaly, now Gabbiadini. English clubs will have to try harder if they want Napoli players.
