Napoli could rival Arsenal for the signing of Paris Saint-Germain youngster Alphonse Areola, FootballDirectNews.com understands.
The Italian side are facing the prospect of losing their current number one Pepe Reina in the summer, as the on-loan Spaniard is expected to return to parent club Liverpool before likely completing a switch to Barcelona.
This has seen manager Rafael Benitez keep an eye out for new players between the posts, with the likes of Stoke City’s Asmir Begovic and Chelsea’s Thibaut Courtois mentioned as possible targets in recent months.
However, Napoli now look set to join the hunt for promising young shot-stopper Areola, 21, who is currently out on loan from PSG at Ligue 2 side Lens.
The French Under-21 international has impressed, and may be in contention for the number one spot at the Parc des Princes next season, unless the Ligue 1 champions continue their policy of bringing in big-name signings, which may see the player made available again. Arsenal are known to be keen on Areola, though a club insider has now revealed that Napoli are stepping up their interest in bringing him to Serie A.
