Zhegrova identified as Napoli’s top target after failed January moves | OneFootball

Napoli have identified Edon Zhegrova of Lille as the ideal successor to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, after losing the Geogian star to Paris Saint-Germain in January.

The Serie A giants had previously expressed interest in the Kosovar winger during the winter transfer window, but Lille were unwilling to part with the 25-year-old mid-season.

Edon Zhegrova of Lille in action during the UEFA Champions League league phase match between Lille OSC and Juventus FC, in Lille, France, 05 November 2024. EPA-EFE/CHRISTOPHE PETIT TESSON

Zhegrova deal back on Napoli’s radar following January transfer struggles

However, Zhegrova was reportedly open to the move, suggesting the two clubs could potentially resume transfer talks aimed at reaching a potential agreement in the upcoming weeks, according to Il Corriere dello Sport.

Partenopei manager Antonio Conte is also said to be particularly keen on signing the player, which is why the club’s sporting director, Giovanni Manna, is actively working to finalise the deal, aiming to bolster the squad ahead of their return to the Champions League.

epa09574616 Jordan’s Odai Al-Saify (C) in action against Kosovo’s Edon Zhegrova (R) during the International Friendly soccer match between Kosovo and Jordan in Pristina, Kosovo, 10 November 2021. EPA-EFE/VALDRIN XHEMAJ

Lille are expected to demand a transfer fee between €20m and €25m for the Kosovo international, although his contract until 2026 could prompt the French club to negotiate to avoid losing the player on a free transfer in the future.

Napoli were unable to secure their preferred replacements for Kvaratskhelia in January, as moves for Alejandro Garnacho and Karim Adeyemi proved too costly and complex. As a result, they settled for a last-minute loan deal for Noah Okafor from Milan in the final hours of the winter transfer window.