Napoli are the latest club to have joined the race for Udinese’s highly-rated central defender, Mehdi Benatia.
Udinese’s centre-back has long been the subject of interest from Serie A’s biggest teams, and this summer seems the year when he will finally be prized away from the Stadio Friuli.
Napoli president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, is said to have tabled a bid in the region of €13-15m for Benatia. The Neapolitan club is facing competition from Russian millionaires Anzhi Makachkala as well as AC Milan for the Moroccan international.
According to Alfredopedulla.it, Udinese and the player said to be favoring Napoli’s offer and that confirmation of his move could soon be made. With Napoli having clinched a Champions League berth, Napoli would indeed seem in pole position for his signature.
The former Marseille graduate has grown from strength to strength in recent seasons with the Zebrette. After a host of departures over the past couple seasons, Benatia has remained as one of the last pillars and main attractions at the Stadio Friuli.
The 25-year-old Moroccan has made 19 Serie A appearances this season and scored two goals in helping Udinese clinch a Europa League berth for next season.
