EMPOLI, ITALY – OCTOBER 20: Billy Gilmour of SSC Napoli and Giovanni Simeone of SSC Napoli celebrate the victory after during the Serie A match between Empoli and Napoli at Stadio Carlo Castellani on October 20, 2024 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
With four defeats from the last five Serie A games having definitively spoiled their encouraging start, Torino are desperate to strengthen their squad in the winter transfer market and could be prepared to give Napoli a fast-track for one of their gems in return for a striker that can replace Duvan Zapata.
The Colombia international’s season-ending injury deprived Paolo Vanoli’s side of their most reliable attacking option, and his absence has taken a toll on a team that only scored once in their last five league fixtures.
Torino: Napoli’s demands for Simone involve Ricci’s future
Therefore, the Granata are on the lookout for a substitute and believe Napoli’s Giovanni Simeone could be an ideal profile, but the Partenopei have set clear conditions to give the green light to his departure.
According to Tuttosport, president Aurelio De Laurentiis demands a €15m fee to sell the striker, as well as an option that would see his club take precedence over other suitors in case they decide to put midfielder Samuele Ricci on sale.
The Argentinian forward has one goal from 12 Serie A appearances this term with Antonio Conte’s side, but he only started on one occasion and would reportedly be glad to get more playing time elsewhere.
However, Torino are also keeping an eye on Andrea Petagna as a backup plan, as the 29-year-old is also struggling to pile up minutes at Monza and could be signed for a much more affordable fee, around €3m.
