The announcement of Pablo Zabaleta’s departure from Manchester City at the end of the season after many years of loyal service may have brought a few tears, yet now the campaign is over, it’s back to business for the player’s representatives.
The 32-year-old’s career is far from over, even if he doesn’t fit in Pep Guardiola’s plans anymore, and the rumours regarding his future are taking him far from the Etihad, with Italy a possible alternative to the West Ham links that have circulated recently.
Close to joining Roma in January, if certain reports were to be believed, it is now Napoli who are considering making a move for the Argentina international, with his free agent status a very attractive one for many clubs looking for experienced backups.
In contrast to Slaven Bilic’s side, the Manchester City veteran would be able to play Champions League football in the south of Italy.
Il Mattino on Tuesday claim the right-back is an option to help Elseid Hysaj get more rest next season, with a long campaign planned, 
but his age remains a problem, something West Ham, having brought in Alvaro Arbeloa last season as a backup, won’t see as an issue.
The slant is that a deal is ‘not impossible’, even if his advancing (footballing) years and his likely high wage could be a problem when players such as Vurnon Anita, likely to ask for less, are also available.
It’s one to keep an eye on in the coming weeks, that’s for sure, but if Il Mattino’s wording is anything to go by, West Ham are still favourites in this one.
