On Friday, we covered the rather confusing claims from Il Mattino regarding Manolo Gabbiadini’s future, and came to the conclusion that maybe, just maybe, there weren’t that many Premier League clubs interested in him.
The Italian newspaper stated that Southampton had made a bid of €22m + bonuses for the 25-year-old, yet according to previous reports from the same outlet a few weeks prior, that bid should have been accepted.
On Monday, Il Mattino do stick to their story the Saints are still the favourites from England to sign Gabbiadini, yet they’ve also decided to bring back an alleged interest from Stoke City for the player, and an €18m offer on the table.
The timing of the Potters’ inclusion, however, makes little sense, considering Mark Hughes’ side signed a striker in Saido Berahino, a long term target.
This means we highly doubt Stoke will make any kind of attempt to sign Gabbiadini from now on, and this would technically leave Southampton alone in the race.
Thing is, Il Mattino say Stoke’s €18m offer is only ‘slightly behind’ Southampton’s.
€18m is not ‘slightly behind’ €22m + bonuses.
In fact, that’s quite a considerable difference when Napoli’s asking price is €25m.
Bottom line is, it seems the local press are trying to make Gabbiadini more wanted than he actually is.
