Napoli step up chase for Montoya

Italian daily newspaper Il Matino understands that Napoli are set to launch a fresh assault on Barcelona defender Martin Montoya.

The talented full-back has less than a year left on his deal at Camp Nou, meaning that he could be leaving the club on a free transfer at the end of the current campaign.

A number of top European clubs are closely monitoring the situation, with Arsenal and Liverpool thought to be keen.

However, Il Matino has learned that Napoli have moved to the pole position to sign the 22-year-old footballer.

Namely, the Azzurri have prepared a five-year contract for Montoya worth no less than €3 million per campaign, which should give them the upper hand in the race for the player’s signature.

Having made just one league appearance this season, the defender could ultimately decide to leave the Catalans and accept one of the lucrative offers from abroad.