Bologna: Napoli on Ramirez watch

Bologna vice-president Maurizio Setti has claimed that Napoli are keeping tabs on Uruguay international Gaston Ramirez.

The 21-year-old midfielder is one of Serie A’s most talented youngsters and is expected to end his two-year association with the club in the off-season.

Reports in the English press had claimed that Liverpool were the favourites to land Ramirez, with a 20-million-euro (16.3m-pound) bid being tabled but, according to the Bologna official, a move to the Neapolitan side may hold more substance.

“He is being tracked by many clubs including Napoli. Ramirez wants to play in the Champions League and be part of a club that has big ambitions,” Setti told radio station CRC.

“There have been a lot of inquiries, as well as scouts who have come to observe him. Ramirez is a player who will make a difference to any team because he is a born champion.

“Like all Uruguayans who have adapted to Serie A, he will get even better, year to year.”

Bologna and Napoli meet at the Stadio Dall’Ara on Sunday.