Napoli’s pursuit of Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini reportedly hangs in the balance after he demanded almost £4million per year in wages.
According to Italian source Il Mattino, the Serie A outfit have made the Red Devils flop their primary summer transfer target and they remain serious about securing his services.
However, they are believed to be reluctant to jeopardise their salary structure and will bide their time in the hope that the Belgium international lowers his expectations.
United are seemingly willing to allow him to leave if Napoli meet their asking price and agree to an outright sale, as opposed to a loan switch with a view to a permanent move 12 months down the line.
The Italians have become frustrated in their long-running attempts to land Lucas Leiva from Liverpool.
Reds star Lucas is believed to be keen on a reunion with head coach Rafael Benitez, who lured him to Merseyside from Gremio seven years ago when he was Liverpool boss.
Representatives of the Brazil international met with Napoli officials in Rome earlier this month to iron out personal terms, but the two clubs involved are still no closer to settling on a fee.
Benitez led his side to Italian Cup glory last season and also secured Champions League qualification.