Having dismantled Liverpool on the biggest stage and currently leading Serie A, there’s no denying that Napoli are the in-form team in Europe these days.
Each and every one of their players are performing very well, including Stanislav Lobotka, which has caught the eye of clubs in the Premier League.
Chelsea and Manchester City, two hugely attractive clubs, are said to be interested in the Slovakian, with the information coming from RAI journalist Ciro Venerato.
Speaking to TV Luna, and relayed by Area Napoli, he was asked about the situation surrounding the midfielder’s renewal in the south of Italy.
That’s when he mentioned Chelsea and Manchester City: “We are at a good point, we are still discussing. I’m not saying it’s done, because I give certainties only when there is a signature or the agreement is very close. We are not yet at this. Napoli are willing to give him €2.5m/season, but the player’s entourage are trying to get a contract worth over €3m/year.
“However, there is confidence between the parties for a successful conclusion of the deal. Lobotka’s agent has also received at least two phone calls: one from Chelsea, the other from Manchester City.”
The 27-year-old has featured in every single game for Napoli to date this season, picking up one goal and an assist along the way from his defensive midfield position.
With Denis Zakaria yet to play for Chelsea since arriving on loan from Juventus, the triggering of the purchase clause seems unlikely, meaning that Lobotka could be considered as a replacement next season were the Swiss midfielder to be sent back to Turin.
As for Manchester City, why they would need him is a bit murkier since they recently signed Kalvin Phillips from Leeds and already have Rodri, but they might be looking at potentially replacing Ilkay Gündogan long-term, whose contract at the Etihad expires in the summer.
