Napoli could reportedly decide to axe Piotr Zielinski from the Champions League squad as his agreement with Inter Milan looms ever closer.
The 29-year-old is currently running on an expiring contract, so he’ll be free to join a new club in the summer.
As FcInterNews tells it, the Pole has already accepted a proposal from the Nerazzurri. He’s ready to sign a three-year contract with an option for a fourth. The midfielder would earn 4.5 million euros as net wages.
But as the source tells it, Zielinski would like to avoid running into troubles in his final months in the Southern Italian city.
The report believes that the player has already irked Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis by refusing to sign a contract renewal and favoring a move to Inter.
The controversial patron is reportedly considering dropping the Poland international out of the Champions League squad.
Newcomers Leander Dendoncker and Hamed Traoré would effectively replace him in the European list.
Moreover, the source adds that this has been Zielinski’s least inspiring campaign since joining Napoli in 2016. This could be another motive behind De Laurentiis’ reported plot.
Inter Milan Links Could Cost Piotr Zielinski A Place In Napoli Champions League Squad
Nevertheless, FcInterNews believes that Partenopei coach Walter Mazzarri would like to keep Zielinski involved, at least until the end of the season.
The Polish star has been a stalwart for the club since making the switch from Udinese. He was an integral part of Luciano Spalletti’s midfield last season, helping the Azzurri win their first Scudetto title in 33 years.
Nevertheless, the team hasn’t been the same this season under the guidance of Rudi Garcia and his successor Mazzarri.
Several top stars have been underperforming, including the likes of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Stanislav Lobotka.
However, Inter believe they can help Zielinski restore his best form if they manage to put his signature on paper.
