West Ham are now in the picture for Napoli’s Mathias Olivera, who has been pursued by Nottingham Forest since January.
The Midlands club made an approach to sign the left-back and this was covered extensively by Sport Witness. The South American was keen on a move and had even submitted a transfer request.
Olivera ended up staying in Naples regardless and he’s continued to shine. He’s started all of Napoli’s last seven Serie A games. His versatility has become clearer with every passing week, as Olivera has also played on the right side of the backline.
Despite this, an exit in the summer remains on the cards. West Ham have now joined Nottingham Forest in the race for the defender.
As we’ve covered exclusively, Nottingham Forest are in ongoing talks with Napoli for Olivera. The Hammers could now disrupt that.
Move can depend on Olivera
Il Mattino take a close look at possible exits from Napoli in the summer. They can lose Leonardo Spinazzola but he isn’t the only full-back who may depart at the end of the season. Olivera’s future is also uncertain, with his current contract running out in 2030.
It is believed a lot will depend on the left-back’s own decision, with Napoli not appearing to force him into staying.
The newspaper believe Nottingham Forest remain on Olivera’s trail but West Ham are also a big fan of the South American. They are also firmly in the race, with Atletico Madrid and Sevilla also competing for his signature.
The report claims that Napoli’s sale of the defender will depend on the offers that land on their table. They are likely to look at a capital gain, especially since Olivera has over four years left on his current contract.
Our take: Right time for England move
By now, Olivera has done quite well in Spain and Italy, playing European football at both Napoli and Getafe. He has done enough to prove himself for the national team too, playing 35 times for Uruguay.
At 28, there couldn’t be a better time for a move to England. Nottingham Forest and West Ham should keep pushing for the left-back, who is more than just a versatile defender. Even when playing at full-back, Olivera has often inverted into midfield and this has only helped him grow as a player.
That is why he will offer a lot of value to the two English clubs. Napoli paid €15m to sign him and anything around €20m can possibly force them into a sale.
