Napoli are reportedly ready to ramp up their pursuit of Swansea City forward Michu.
According to Italian source Il Mattino, the Serie A heavyweights are still fighting to keep hold of hitman Gonzalo Higuain and know the acquisition of a replacement could be necessary.
La Liga giants Barcelona are tracking the Argentina striker and could firm up their interest with an official bid when his national team’s World Cup adventure in Brazil comes to an end.
The latest report reveals that Spanish hotshot Michu has been identified by compatriot Rafael Benitez, who is head coach of the Naples outfit, as the man to step in during the summer transfer window.
However, the nature of the deal could be a stumbling block in the coming weeks.
While Napoli are prepared to test the water with a loan offer which would carry a pre-arranged fee for a permanent move at the end of the 2014-15 campaign, Swansea are likely to demand the full amount up front by selling him outright.
Napoli are said to be concerned about Michu’s fitness record after seeing him miss four months of last season due to an ankle problem.
They feel a big-money transfer at this stage would represent a gamble on their part.