Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini has confirmed reports linking Napoli with a move for Federico Balzaretti.
The 30-year-old defender is one of the hottest commodities on the market at the moment, with Milan and Lazio already showing interest in his services.
The full-back was heavily linked with a switch to Paris Saint-Germain last January, but the transfer never materialized.
Palermo were looking to cash in on their star player after he expressed his desire to leave, and they now reveal Napoli were the only side to make a formal enquiry for Balzaretti.
“Balzaretti has a contract with us,” president Maurizio Zamparini told Radio Radio. “The only club who have asked me for him is Napoli.
“Only Aurelio De Laurentiis made an enquiry. He is a gentleman and he came directly to me without involving agents.”
However, the Rosanero have changed their minds and they are now eager to hold on to the Italian international.
“He phoned and asked if there was the possibility that I could sell the player to Napoli, but I told him that Balzaretti will stay here.”
Balzaretti has a contract until June 2013 at Renzo Barbera and is currently negotiating a new three-year deal.
The player is currently with Italy squad at the European Championship and was one of the best players in Italy’s final group game against Republic of Ireland.
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