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According to reports, Napoli are keeping tabs on Chelsea defender Emerson Palmieri as they look to reinforce their defense ahead of the upcoming season. The left-back isn't their first-choice option, though.
Chelsea have already sold two players to Serie A this summer, with Oliver Giroud and Fikayo Tomori both leaving Stamford Bridge to join AC Milan.
It seems the Blues won't be hitting the brakes anytime soon, with Emerson being linked with a switch to the Italian top flight.
The story makes it clear that the Serie A giants' priority is Villarreal's Pervis Estupinan but they face serious competition from West Ham United for the signature of the player.
The Premier League side are said to have emerged as favorites in the race for the defender. West Ham are reportedly willing to offer more cash than Napoli, which increases their chances of getting a deal over the line.
The Italian outfit are aware of the situation and they've highlighted Chelsea's Emerson as an alternative should they fail to sign their first-choice option.
The Blues defender is said to be eager to return to Italy after falling below Ben Chilwell and Marcos Alonso in the pecking order at Stamford Bridge.
He was granted just two appearances by Thomas Tuchel in the Premier League last season and has grown frustrated over the lack of opportunities.
How much Emerson's sale could fetch for Chelsea
Although the Brazilian's market value has plummeted following his struggles in London, Chelsea have reportedly slapped a £17 million price tag on his head.
Napoli are yet to table an offer for the player but the Italians are believed to be eyeing a loan deal with a purchase option.
The Blues signed Emerson from Roma in a deal worth £17.5 million in January 2018. During his three-and-a-half year stint, the Brazilian has made 70 appearances across all competitions, recording two goals and five assists to his name.
With his contract expiring at the end of next season, it's unlikely Chelsea will keep him beyond the summer. It remains to be seen what fate has in store for the defender.
