One of the big stories in Italy these days, at least in the Newcastle United post-transfer window sphere, is the idea that the Magpies could make a move for two Napoli players.
An offer of £40m was reportedly made for Fabián Ruiz, and then rejected, while the striker target is Victor Osimhen, for whom the Serie A side will want a lot of money, with various quotes all starting at at least €80m.
The big question mark is whether or not these players want to move to St James’ Park, although it’s very clear that if Newcastle do stay up, they will become an attractive prospect going forward.
This comes from Furio Collovati, who was part of the 1982 World Cup winning Italy team, who said to Canale Otto, relayed by Area Napoli: “A rumour has reached me about Fábian Ruiz. I understand that the player has no desire to sign the renewal with Napoli. The Spaniard’s intention would be to end his relationship with the Campania club and then be free to move elsewhere.”
This seems to suggest the midfielder wants to run down his contract, but if that is indeed his plan, we are likely to see Aurelio De Laurentiis do his best to cash in in the summer rather than lose out on potential income by allowing this to happen.
This could therefore be Newcastle’s chance, and one they would likely take if Eddie Howe does manage to steer them clear from the relegation zone.
