Napoli have placed an “extraordinarily high” valuation on midfielder Antonio Vergara, demanding a fee that may exceed €30 million as Como seek a replacement for Nico Paz. The Serie A side have no intention of selling the promising young player unless they receive an offer they simply cannot refuse, according to reports from Sky Sport journalist Gianluca Di Marzio via AreaNapoli.
Como sporting director Carlalberto Ludi has sounded out Napoli regarding the availability of Vergara, who emerged as one of the Partenopei’s standout performers last season. However, Napoli view the midfielder as integral to their future plans and will not be pressured into a cheap sale. Di Marzio describes the asking price as “fuori mercato” — meaning it sits above standard market valuations.
Como’s creative void
The Lombardy club are searching for affordable Italian talent to fill the gap left by Nico Paz’s departure. Real Madrid exercised their buyback option to recall the Argentine from his loan spell at Como, leaving manager Cesc Fàbregas with a significant rebuilding task in his creative department.
Vergara represents an ambitious solution to this problem, though the financial barriers appear substantial. The midfielder has previously attracted interest from several prominent European clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur, Roma and Atalanta, who have all registered admiration for his performances.
A more realistic alternative
With Napoli holding firm on their valuation, Como are simultaneously exploring more accessible options. The club have identified Mattia Liberali of Catanzaro as a potential alternative, with the former Milan youth player available via a €6 million release clause.
This figure represents a significantly more realistic operation for Como compared to the potential €30 million-plus outlay required for Vergara. As Fàbregas continues to strengthen his squad ahead of the new campaign, the Liberali option may ultimately prove the more pragmatic route for the Lombardy side as they seek to consolidate their position in Serie A.