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What’s the rumour?
As per reports from The Sun, Jose Mourinho is ready to make a move for Napoli right-back Elseid Hysaj. The defender reportedly has a £44 million release clause in his contract.
In case you didn't know...
An Albanian international, Hysaj made the switch to Napoli from Italian side Empoli in 2015. He has been an ever-present in their line-up since and has made 134 appearances for the club in all competitions.
He has been a regular starter for the Albanian national team since 2013 as well and has won 37 caps for his country. His current contract with Napoli ends only in 2021.
The heart of the matter
Mourinho wants to strengthen United's right-back position ahead of the season and rightly so. Antonio Valencia will turn 33 in August and Matteo Darmian, who has fallen down the pecking order, is likely to leave the club at the end of the season.
Timothy Fosu-Mensah, who spent the season on loan at Crystal Palace, will be in contention for a starting berth next season but Mourinho is eager to recruit a more experienced player as they will want to challenge on all fronts.
Thus, Hysaj has been eyed as a possible target as his £44 million release clause can be easily met. The 24-year-old has enjoyed an excellent season with Napoli, having made 46 appearances for the club and come so very close to snatching the league title away from Juventus.
Rumour rating/probability - 6/10
Despite many sources reporting the same, at the moment, the news can only be classified as a rumour. We will get a clearer picture once the transfer window opens.
Video: The best of Hysaj this season
Author’s take
Valencia may still have a couple of seasons in him but it is always wise to identify possible replacements and Hysaj can prove to be a shrewd buy if a transfer materialises. Napoli may find themselves in a helpless situation if United are ready to pay his release clause and if the player is also willing to move.
