According to Football Italia , Napoli, who brought in a whole host of talent during the summer, are set to make a swoop for two Ligue 1 stars. Lyon midfielder Maxime Gonalons and Marseille defender Nicolas N’Koulou are next on the radar of Napoli manager Rafa Benitez.
Benitez’s said will start the new year in thrid place, behind Roma and Juventus. But are playing some attractive football and are guaranteed to push for a Champions League place next season.
Their attack is nothing short of impressive with summer transfers Gonzalo Higuain, Jose Callejon and Lorenzo Insigne all making their mark on the Naples club. However their defence is leaving something to be desired as Napoli have conceeded 20 goals in the League, compared to Roma’s 7 and Juventus’ 11. So a solid defender with experience is needed, and this is the reason for Napoli’s interest in N’Koulou, and Gonalons can provide much needed security in the middle of the pitch.
N’Koulou was linked with a move to Barcelona last summer and this season, the Cameroonian has been a stand-out performer for Marseille.
Last summer, Gonalons was linked with a move to Arsenal but decided to stick with Lyon. But this season, his side are sitting in 10th place, 19 points off leaders PSG so a move to Serie A could be a welcomed change for the Frenchman.
The move for both players hasn’t been officially confirmed, but if Napoli do manage to get the signature of the Ligue 1 duo, then Napoli would gain two fine players who can aid Benitez in their push to catch Juvetnus at the top.
By Phil Wellbrook
