Partenopei switch attention to reinforcing back-line after Emirates Cup.
Napoli will look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new season, as they step up their interest in Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel.
The Partenopei were in action in the Emirates Cup over the weekend, and after letting a 2-0 lead slip against hosts Arsenal, they were defeated 3-1 by Porto on Sunday, again after taking the lead.
While the Italian media has attributed the struggles Serie A clubs are currently suffering from to a lack of fitness due to the late start to the season, it is understood that Napoli have become aware of their more immediate requirements.
While the chase for Porto star Jackson Martinez looks to be drawing to a close as negotiations over his transfer fee continue to stall, La Gazzetta dello Sport have reported that Martin Skrtel will now become a priority for the Serie A giants.
The 28-year-old has impressed during his spell at Anfield, and it is believed that director of sport Riccardo Bigon will now try to begin talks with the club over a potential sale.
According to Gazzetta, the problem around the move revolves around Skrtel’s wage demands, as it is believed he currently earns €4m per season.
However Napoli owner Aurelio De Laurentiis is keen to invest in the Slovakian international, and will make further funds available by giving the green-light to the sale of Alessandro Gamberini and Federico Fernandez.
Having sold Hugo Campagnaro to rivals Inter earlier this summer, Rafa Benitez is light in terms of quality at the back, with club captain Paolo Cannavaro and Miguel Britos likely to be his first-choice centre-half pairing if Skrtel fails to arrive.
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