Napoli are still pushing to sign Anan Khalaili, and the deal is now said to be nearing completion despite recent reports that it might collapse. Italian transfer reporter Fabrizio Romano said on Saturday that Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna views the Israeli winger as his top and most urgent reinforcement target.
Romano said the talks have made major progress after a long club follow, and that the final details between Napoli and Union Saint-Gilloise are in the final stretch before an official agreement. He also said the player wants to experience life in Italy.
Earlier reports in Italy said negotiations were close to breaking down because Union SG were demanding about 25 million euros, a fee Napoli consider too high. The club had also looked at other options, including Brazilian left-back Dodo from Fiorentina, but Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis reportedly prefers Khalaili.
Local reporting has stressed that Napoli see Khalaili as a strategic long-term investment. Journalist Pasquale Tina said the club values his age and potential resale value in two or three years, unlike Dodo, who will turn 28 in a few months. Napoli also believe Khalaili's versatility, having played as a wing-back, winger, central striker, and attacking wide forward, could make him useful for coach-to-be Massimiliano Allegri, who may use several systems including 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, or a back three.
