Napoli contact Udinese to sign Everton target Beto

Napoli are in talks to sign Udinese striker Beto this summer, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.

The Seria A champions have made their first contact with the Friulians over a deal as they formulate plans for their title defence.

They have identified Beto as a centre-forward to reinforce their squad. Apart from Victor Osimhen, they don’t have another notable striker.

Napoli are willing to part with €25 million to seal Beto’s signing. They have submitted an initial bid around that figure.

However, Udinese are demanding €35m. It is the sum of his release clause, and want it met.

Beto has netted ten goals in 30 Serie A appearances this season, adding to the 11 he scored last term.

His strikes have helped keep his side comfortably in mid-table in both seasons.

Premier League side Everton targeted him in the January transfer window and made a deadline-day bid that Udinese rejected.

He could be on the move this summer as several top clubs in Italy are eyeing him. 

Napoli’s interest in the 25-year-old could mean Osimhen is set to leave, with the Nigerian international attracting interest from several top clubs.

Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis claims Osimhen is not for sale, but many people believe he bluffs to encourage higher bids. He is reportedly seeking €150 million.

Beto has a similar profile to the former LOSC Lille man. They are both hardworking strikers with good hold-up play. They don’t give defenders rest.

Despite the difference in valuation between the two clubs, relations are positive. They could even engage in more than one transfer.

Napoli are reportedly looking at Udinese midfielder Lazar Samardzic who has impressed this season.

They could also sign experienced defender Rodrigo Becao from the Friulians. He has one year left on his deal, and the Partenopei have him on their radar.