Simon Mignolet has reportedly emerged as a target for Napoli after missing out on Liverpool’s epic win against Arsenal
According to a report by The Sun, Liverpool keeper Simon Mignolet has emerged as a shock target for Napoli. It is understood that Napoli are seeking a potential replacement for Pepe Reina, who could be on his way to join Paris Saint-Germain this summer.
The fact that Jurgen Klopp preferred to play Loris Karius over Mignolet on Sunday, has given rise to speculation that the current Liverpool No. 1 could be seeking an exit to join the Serie A side. Although Klopp has insisted that Mignolet will play at Manchester City after the international break, reports suggest otherwise.
The former Sunderland custodian was signed in the summer of 2013 and his career has failed to take off to the next level since then. The numbers paint a grim picture as well, with Mignolet maintaining a little over 50 clean sheets in 166 matches, conceding 193 goals in the process.
Simon Mignolet started last season in goal for the Reds as Loris Karius was ruled out for more than a month with a broken hand. Although the Belgian didn’t make any glaring errors, he didn’t do anything extraordinary to convince Klopp that he deserved an extended run in the first team.
And even though he eventually went on to displace Loris Karius as the first-choice goalkeeper at Anfield, Napoli appear to have taken quite an interest in the player. Earlier reports, however, also suggested that Klopp was seeking an alternative to the Belgian stopper.
The Liverpool boss was reportedly targeting Joe Hart with the Englishman providing a much more commanding and assured presence in goal. However, that deal did not materialize. Hence, if Mignolet does move to Napoli, Klopp will either have to identify and pursue a new goalkeeper within limited time, or continue with Karius.
Considering how injury-prone Karius can be, the second option does not seem too likely. Hence, if at all Napoli submit an offer for Mignolet, it remains highly speculative as to whether or not Klopp will allow the move to go through. With the transfer window set to end soon, finding a new first-choice keeper can be tough for the Reds boss.
Meanwhile, Napoli are expected to lose out on Pepe Reina since he is being targeted by French champions PSG. Moving to the Serie-A could provide Mignolet with exciting new opportunities and allow him to establish a stronger dominion over the starting spot, but as the situation stands, a move seems a little unlikely.
