Napoli will attempt to sign Liverpool duo in January

Napoli are expected to continue their pursuit of Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel in January, with the latest reports indicating they will also look to move for midfielder Lucas Leiva.

The Slovakian centre-back was reportedly close to a move to Naples during the summer transfer window, only for injuries to Sebastian Coates and Kolo Toure to force manager Brendan Rodgers to reassess his defensive options.

With the Premier League side having completed the deadline day signings of Paris Saint-Germain’s Mamadou Sakho and Sporting Lisbon youngster Tiago Ilori, the 28-year-old could once again be available.

However Tuttosport also reports that Partenopei sporting director Riccardo Bigon is aiming to negotiate for Brazilian midfielder Lucas as well.

With the 26-year-old being a constant presence in the Reds lineup it remains to be seen whether the Azzurri would be able to convince the English side to let the former Gremio player go.

Napoli currently sit in second place with 16 points from their first six matches.

Follow Kevin Pogorzelski on Twitter: @rabbitrabbiton